The Wokingham Paper, February 5, 2016

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COVERING WOKINGHAM, FINCHAMPSTEAD, WINNERSH, SHINFIELD, WOODLEY, TWYFORD & SURROUNDING AREAS

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N E W S W I T H A H E A RT F O R T H E B O RO U G H

Climbing high

Friday, February 5, 2016 No. 42

50p

CRIME

ARMED ROBBERS THREATEN SHOP STAFF P3 ACCIDENT

CAR FLIPS IN COUNTRY LANE P4 Mountaineering queen inspires pupils • p9

Protect yourself from silent killer

Family warns of carbon monoxide dangers after Hurst man’s death SEE PAGE 14

CLAIMS

COUNCIL’S £74,000 PAY OUT P3 CAMPAIGN

PARKING FEE HIKE SLATED

BY SOCIETY P5 SPORT

SUMAS PLANS TO IMPROVE GROUND P4 & 40

2 | NEWS

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

This is Wokingham.

We’re proud to cover it!

WOKINGHAM borough is a large part of Berkshire. More than 156,000 of us live here – and countless more work here too.

It’s a diverse area with pretty villages mingling with market towns and hamlets. In parts industrial, in others picturesque, it is a wonderful place to be.

The Wokingham Paper was set up to ensure that the whole borough had its own newspaper.

Our team has a mission to report on events and activities from the northernmost parts, which include parts of Henley and Cockpole Green, to the south including

Swallowfield and Finchampstead.

In between you’ve got Twyford, Woodley and Wokingham town itself. All have their own personalities and specialities and we aim to reflect that.

Our strapline is “News with a heart for the borough” and that’s exactly what we do. We’re a truly local newspaper – we’re produced locally, printed locally and we live locally.

No one else covers Wokingham the way that we do. So if you want to reach Wokingham, we’re the place to be.

FAMILY NOTICES Share your family news in The Wokingham Paper Is there a new addition in your family?

Is your son or daughter getting married this summer?

Has someone you know recently passed their exams?

Maybe a work colleague is retiring and you would like to wish them well in the future.

Contact The Wokingham Paper to post your announcements today.

We offer a range of packages designed at helping you share your news without breaking the bank.

Send us your wedding pictures

If you’re getting married over the next few weeks, make sure you include us in your plans.

Simply send us a picture of the happy couple and tell us a little about the day and we’ll print it free of charge, when space permits.

Share your bundle of joy!

Have you heard the pitter patter of tiny feet? Has the stork brought you a special delivery? We’d love to share your good news with our readers.

Simply send us a photo of the new arrival and tell us a little about them and we’ll print it free of charge, when space permits.

For more details...

Email announcements@wokinghampaper.co.uk or, to place a paid notice, call 0118 960 6060.

THE WOKINGHAM PAPER

N E W S W I T H A H E A RT F O R T H E B O RO U G H

GET IN TOUCH

Call 0118 327 2662 Write to: The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

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YOUR TEAM Publisher PHIL CREIGHTON Reporter GEMMA DAVIDSON Reporter VIVIENNE JOHNSON Features SALLY BRYANT Sports editor LEWIS RUDD Sports reporter TOM CROCKER Chief sub-editor ADAM SMITH Chief photographer PAUL KING Advertising MARK MARTIN

FACEBOOK & TWITTER: WOKINGHAMPAPER © Published by Xn Media Ltd, 2016 for the people of Wokingham Borough

FESTIVAL

Raise a glass to the saint of brewing in Knowl Hill

A KNOWL Hill inn is looking forward to celebrating the patron saint of brewing with a mini-beer festival.

The Bird In Hand will be marking St Amand with the four-day event which will feature guest beers from local breweries.

It will also offer sessions showing how the beers can be matched to various dishes on its menus.

The event takes place from today to Monday at the Bath Road inn.

For more details, call 01628 826622.

COMMUNITY

Meet your neighbours for a lunch and chat

A LOCAL Muslim woman is encouraging local residents to come together regardless of race, colour, religion or origin to meet and talk.

The Meet Your Neighbours Lunch is open to all and hosted by the newly founded group Community in Conversation.

It is taking place at St Peter’s Church Hall, Church Road, Earley, tomorrow (Saturday) from noon to 3pm.

There will be no charge but organisers say it would be appreciated if those attending could bring something to share for lunch. There will be activities arranged for children while the adults eat and chat.

CONCERT

Raising the roof to give gift of music to children A CONCERT will help children in African orphanages discover the gift of music.

Trinity Concert Band’s French horn players in action and, below right, Jim Trott, founder and executive director of Brass for Africa.

Pictures: Paul King

FUNDRAISING

Africa concert is out of this world MUSIC from Star Wars, Frozen and How To Train Your Dragon featured in a review of the year performance by a local band.

On Saturday, Trinity Concert Band held its first concert of 2016, featuring a selection of music chosen by audiences based on its concerts held in 2015.

The event, held at Trinity Church in Lower Earley, raised funds for Brass For Africa, a project that aims to bring music to the continent.

Half the proceeds from tickets and a half-time cake stall were given to the charity.

Dave Robson, spokesperson for the band, told The Wokingham Paper: “There was a great programme of music — the best of 2015, as chosen by our audience.

Earley St Peter’s Church will be the venue for the evening of music, which will be given by the Chiltern Brass Quintet and a specially formed Chiltern Youth Brass Ensemble.

The event will raise funds for the church and for the Brass For Africa charity, which works in Uganda and Liberia.

The concert takes place tomorrow (Saturday), from 7.30pm at the Church Road, Earley church.

Tickets cost £8, £5 for concessions and £2 for children.

To book or for more information, call 07905 087478.

“It included music from Frozen, the mighty Star Wars, a beautifully played flute solo arrangement of Ladies in Lavender and a great arrangement of Glenn Miller classics In The Miller Mood.

“The finale starred our principal saxophone player in an arrangement of music from the show Riverdance.

“We’re delighted to report that the sale of cakes made by band members for the interval raised over £160 for Brass for Africa. In addition, we’ll be donating half of the proceeds from the concert to our friends at Brass for Africa.”

The group is now preparing for its next event, a St George’s Day concert which will take place in All Saints Church in Wokingham town centre on Saturday, April 23.

WOKINGHAM

Test your grey matter with charity quiz

A QUIZ night in aid of Wokingham In Need will take place.

The charity is holding the event to raise funds for its work among some of Wokingham’s most vulnerable people.

Teams are up to eight and entry is £5 per person. Guests are invited to bring their own drinks and nibbles.

It will take place tomorrow (Saturday) from 7.30pm at Kingdom

WIN £200 FOR YOUR GROUP THE Wokingham Paper and TradeMark Windows have teamed up to present Community Cash Tokens.

The scheme is simple – cut out the tokens we’ll print each week.

Send them in to us, as many as you like, and once every two months we’ll pull one at random from the editor’s hat. One lucky group will win £200, courtesy of TradeMark Windows.

The more tokens that you and your group send in, the more chance you have of your group being picked at random.

The Community Cash Tokens are open to charities and other non-profit making groups within Wokingham borough and offer a great way of boosting your funds.

We’re able to offer Community Cash Tokens thanks to the generosity of Mark

Ashwell, managing director of TradeMark Windows.

The Wokingham Paper’s publisher Phil Creighton said: “The Community Cash Tokens were a hugely popular ingredient of The Wokingham Times, and thanks to Mark’s support for the community of Wokingham borough, we’re delighted to be able to bring them back.

“Whatever your group, charity or good cause is, Community Cash Tokens offers your supporters a fun way of helping you raise funds and awareness of your cause.

“Make sure you don’t miss an issue.”

Send your tokens to: Community Cash Tokens, The Wokingham Paper, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Please note, only original tokens can be accepted.

Hall in Station Road, Wokingham – the home of Kings Church and opposite the council offices in Shute End. To reserve tickets, call Candy Kirkland on 0118 375 8418.

COMMUNITY

Enjoy a fish supper and questions at church

A QUIZ NIGHT with fish and chips will take place at St Paul’s Parish Rooms tomorrow (Saturday).

The fun starts at 7pm.

For details, call the church office on 0118 979 2122.

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WOKINGHAM PAPER

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Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

CRIME

FIRE

Armed raiders threaten to shoot store workers ARMED robbers threatened to shoot staff during a raid at an Earley mobile phone shop situated on a busy road during rush hour on Tuesday.

At around 5.45pm, two men burst into the Carphone Warehouse branch on Shepherds Hill. One was carrying a hammer, the other a weapon wrapped in cloth.

They threatened the two members of staff on duty and stole mobile phones and a laptop before making their escape.

Thames Valley Police said that the robbers made off on foot across the road and headed across the roundabout towards the pet shop and bathroom shop on the opposite side - but they were last seen behind Johnsons Dry Cleaners which is just a few

doors up from Carphone Warehouse on the same side of the road.

The offenders are described as wearing dark clothing.

Detective Inspector Nick Watts of Reading CID, who is leading the investigation, said: “This robbery took place between 5.45pm and 6.15pm next to a busy road as lots of people were heading home from work.

“We would ask anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously near that time near that roundabout to call us. Or anyone who saw men getting into a car in that area to contact us as soon as possible via 101.”

If you have any information call police on 101 quoting URN 1186 2/2.

Mum and baby escape after potato sparks blaze

A YOUNG mum and her baby had a lucky escape after a potato cooking in a microwave caught fire at their Lower Earley home on Wednesday.

Firefighters from Wokingham Road and Whitley Wood were called to Wimblington Drive after the alarmed was raised just before 4.30pm.

No smoke alarms were found at the home, prompting fire chiefs to urge homeowners to get the life-saving devices fitted.

Watch manager Roy Buckland from Wokingham Road said: “The potato had been cooking for too long and caught fire.

“This does stress the importance of having smoke alarms fitted in the property.”

DEVELOPMENT

Community centre plans go on show in Shinfield

Carphone Warehouse was open for business on Wednesday after the raid. Picture: Paul King

PETITION

Pet store at centre of puppy sale storm hits back at ‘fake allegations’ EXCLUSIVE

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk A WOKINGHAM pet store at the centre of an internet storm over the sale of puppies says it is doing everything by the book and only buys from licensed breeders.

In recent weeks, more than 10,000 people have signed an online petition aimed at forcing Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) to refuse Hare Hatchbased Linton Pet Shop’s request for a licence to sell dogs.

The petition, which was launched on the Change.org website, reads: “Following a debate in Parliament in 2014, councils have the power to make the decision whether to issue a licence for pet shops to

sell puppies.

“We believe that the concerns regarding the source of the puppies should result in a licence NOT being issued. We therefore plead with Wokingham Council to listen to the people.”

More than 5,000 people signed the petition involving the Ladds Garden Centre-based pet shop in the first 24 hours.

Laurie Agius, the owner of Linton Pet Stores, told The Wokingham Paper that since the petition had launched she has received hate mail and that the allegations on the change.org website are false.

Ms Agius said: “These are fake allegations. We have to buy dogs from licensed breeders. People are not understanding [the dogs] are not from a puppy farm.

“It’s all done properly and everything can be monitored.

I’m doing it by the book.”

Earlier this week, the council responded to the petition saying that if it refused Linton a licence to sell puppies it could face a legal challenge “on the basis that we have been lobbied by members of the public”.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, WBC’s executive member for resident services, told The Wokingham Paper: “Linton Pet Store has correctly applied and has been given a licence under the Pet Animals Act 1951, and is complying with its conditions.

“If we receive an application that meets all the legal requirements then we are obliged to issue it.”

Laurie Agius, the owner of Linton Pets Store, insists she has done nothing wrong.

Picture: Paul King

RESIDENTS are being invited to take a look at plans for a new community centre in Shinfield.

The Parish Council, working in conjunction with Wokingham Borough Council, has been developing plans for the centre, which will be built on the site of the former British Legion Club in School Green.

The club is due to be demolished and the new community centre will be attached to the existing parish hall.

A selection of architects’ drawings will be on display in the John Heggadon Meeting Room at Shinfield Parish Hall, on Saturday, February 13, and 20 between 10am and 1pm.

WARNING

System upgrade will halt borough council’s emails

PARTS of Wokingham Borough Council’s website will be offline - including emails - this weekend to enable an upgrade.

From today (Friday) through to Monday, some online services will be unavailable. These include online accounts, planning application searches, maps and online forms.

Additionally, the entire borough council’s email system will be down.

The online contact form will be working and, in an emergency, call 0800 212 111. For social care emergencies call 01344 786543.

TAXPAYERS

Accident payouts by borough council top £74,000 SLIPS and trips have cost Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) more in compensation in two years than neighbouring Reading, new figures have revealed.

Claims dealt with by WBC included slipping on wet stairs, falling over a raised paving slab and damage caused by potholes.

Over two years it paid out a total of £73,976 - £34,848 in 2013/14, and £39,128 in 2014/15. In the same period, Reading Borough Council paid out £46,500.

The report from The Taxpayers Alliance (TPA) also revealed that more than £100 million has been paid out

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in compensation claims against local authorities across the UK over the last two years.

The highest compensation claim was from Lambeth Council which, over the two years, paid out £5,264,071.

The TPA says the figures suggest some local authorities are failing to adequately deliver services - such as pothole repair and road maintenance - resulting in costly compensation claims.

Others claims could be attributed to the failure to meet the standard of care required of local authorities by the law, it said.

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Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, WBC’s executive member for resident services, told The Wokingham Paper: “Every claim is assessed on its individual circumstances and dealt with solely on the basis of legal liability.

“Where we and our insurers are satisfied there is no liability, we thoroughly investigate and robustly defend them. Compensation is only paid if we are legally liable.

“The compensation payments highlighted in the Taxpayers Alliance report include slipping on wet stairs, tripping over an obstruction on the floor, falling over a

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raised paving slab and vehicle damage caused by potholes.

“We want to be transparent, but sadly cannot give more details about individual cases because this could identify the people involved and therefore breach their right to confidentiality.

“Claims numbers vary greatly from year to year and depend on a number of factors, including winter weather conditions. We take our responsibilities to the public and our employees very seriously to safely provide our wide range of services.

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CELEBRATIONS CRIME

Make a date forthief picnic ‘Opportunistic’ to markiPad Queen’s swipes from 90th home VILLAGERS in Twyford are planning to

AN iPad was stolen in what police have celebrate Queen’s 90th birthday later describedthe as an opportunistic burglary in this year with a host of community events.

Crowthorne last Sunday.

Parishioners at St Mary’s church are Between 11am and 9.50pm someone already busy making plans for the festivities entered a property in Lupin Ride through an on June 12 by gate arranging entertainment forAn unlocked side and an open rear door. people of all ages, with an emphasis on iPad which had been left on the kitchen table families. was stolen.

The day with will be based on the format ofto this Anyone any information relating The Patron’s Picnic Lunchsuspicious in The Mall, incident, or saw anything around London, planned for the Valley same day. the time,which shouldiscall the Thames Police Among activities is a live TV link up beamed enquirythe centre on 101. back from the capital to a large screen in the WOKINGHAM church.

Twyford’s all-day event will start with a service in St Mary’s at 10.30am with prayers and an emphasis on the Queen.

BRIDES-to-be canduring pick upthe tipsday andwill ideas at a Entertainment include wedding fare in Wokingham on Sunday.

Uncle Charlie the clown, the High Voltage St Anne’s Manor in Army London Roadthe is the singers, The Salvation Band, cutting venue for thecake event, which will feature of a birthday and a rousing choruslocal of suppliers to help get people ready for their big Happy Birthday. day.Paul Bromley, one of the event organisers, There willisalso beplanned bridal fashion shows ata said: “More being and this will be 12.30pm and 2.30pm. day to remember for the village. Put the date in The event runs your diary now. ” from 11am to 3.30pm and entry is free. For more details, call 01276 CRIME 451498.

Get ready for the big day with this wedding fare

Thieves CRIME steal spare from Transit in Winnersh Warningvan after thieves A SPARE wheel was stolen from a parked Ford attempt to force garage Transit last week.

A GARAGE in Wokingham has been targeted At some point between 5pm on Tuesday, during an attempted burglary.

January 26, and 6am on Wednesday, January Sunday, January January 27,Between thieves took the tyre from10, theand vehicle, 24, someone attempted to break into which was parked in Dunstans Drive, a garage in Tangley Drive but the offenders were Winnersh. unable tohave forceany theinformation door open and nothing If you which couldwas stolen. help police call 101 or call Crimestoppers If anyone has information anonymously on any 0800 555 111. regarding this incident they should call 101.

SUMAS

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, January 29, 2016

FUNDRAISING

Santa’s gift to local charities Football ground expansion plans will not harm area, meeting told

By VIVIENNE JOHNSON vjohnson@wokinghampaper.co.uk

SANTA Claus proved as popular as ever at a garden centre in Twyford, raising an incredible £3,500 for charity during his stay at Christmas.

Nearly 1,200 children visited Santa’s grotto at Hare Hatch Sheeplands, in Bath Road, during the 12 days it was open.

Volunteers from the Rotary Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh made sure that Father Christmas and his elf helpers were always in attendance to welcome visitors.

On Friday, the club’s President Rose Burgess and Treasurer Tim Pascall collected the money from Andrea Burlingham of Sheeplands.

Rose Burgess said: “Various local and international charities plus various good causes will benefit including Mustard

Seed Communities in Jamaica where I was born. It is my charity of the year and helps disadvantaged young people.

“Locally we are also helping Camp Mohawk at Wargrave as well as a number of other beneficiaries.”

Mr Pascall added: “We are grateful to Hare Hatch Sheeplands for helping us again. So many grottos are now run for commercial benefit that’s it’s wonderful to find one still willing to help charitable causes.”

Ms Burlingham said: “We try very hard to be a good neighbour in the local community and this is just part of our effort. I can confirm that we will be happy to be home to Santa’s grotto again next Christmas.”

However, social club trustee and president of Wokingham and Emmbrook football club, Mark Ashwell told the EMMBROOK residents worried that plans meeting: “There will be a curtain of light to install floodlights at a football ground around the ground with no light leakage. would cause light pollution were given Currently there is some light leakage assurances at a meeting earlier this week. into some of the houses on Old Forrest The Emmbrook Sports and Social Club Road. Modern floodlights will solve this organised the event at its Lowther Road problem. site on Tuesday to allow neighbours to “Hours of floodlight usage will include talk about its plans to develop its facilities one midweek game a week but not every so it can met the Football Association’s week and will work out at 15 games a requirements for aRose Step 5 football season.

Lights will be on between Andrea Burlingham, Burgess and Tim Pascall celebrate HareHatch Sheeplands grotto. club.

7pm and 9.45pm and also at More than 50 people weekends.” came along to hear more Traffic and parking on SUPPORT about the plans which Lowther Road was also include new floodlights, raised as a concern. One hardstanding from the resident said: “Current clubhouse to the pitch, a parking is a nightmare new stand that would hold along Lowther Road.

100 people standing and There is pandemonium on Mark Ashwell (left and above) addressing the packed public meeting. Pictures: Vivienne Johnson Reading councils — are failing to meet Wokingham Borough Council. reviewed regularly.

EXCLUSIVE 100 people seated, a parking a weekend.” their responsibilities to help with the cost “Under the Care Act we are required “Rules introduced by the Government By PHIL CREIGHTON area adjacent to Lowther Road Another said: “The attendance situation will not get worse and the cost the team with rent and losing players of caring for the elderly. to manage third party top ups to give make it clear that it is councils that are news@wokinghampaper.co.uk and a handrail around three sides of who do not wish to play in Oxfordshire. figures should take into consideration planned car park will improve things.”

However, the council said earlier protection to the third party and to responsible for making sure this happens the football pitch.

In the plans, Grascrete would be laid to The club said the Lowther Road site the minor town that is being built on this week that it made an error when it the the surface. care home and relatives are not charged unfair A AMISTAKE in opaque Wokingham request for fencingcouncil’s around Matthewsgreen Road. The population underwrite allow 72 cars topayment park on atofirm development will ensure all Wokingham responded to the request for information words if the third fails fees. Yet our research shows that many response a Freedom of Information the site tohas been removed from (FoI) the from this area will make car parking – inMrother Ashwell admitted at theparty meeting: and Emmbrook teams will play in the pay, the council must make good the councils in the South East are failing to request regarding feesfence has ledand to and it is compliant with its responsibilities to application and care the home original “Wokingham and Emmbrook FC [the borough and allow the development of an insufficient.” under the Care Act. shortfall. do this.” itboundary being accused of flouting the rules. will remain.

Mr Ashwell assured them: “Parking Sumas] are currently playing at Step 5 under 18s team.

Cllr Julian McGhee Sumner, WBC’s The Independent Age charity sent out are wellLeague awareand of are ourcurrently top up The says that families of stay the Residents were concerned that for first team football is manageable at in “We the Football “Thecharity sports club’s ambition is to FoI requests to all councils in England. Of executive member for health and responsibilities and we ensure the poorest pensioners could be subsidising bottom of the league so will be playing in floodlights would be taller than the ones wellbeing, at Step 5 and play in Wokingham, play the moment.

The main problem comes said: “Having reviewed the the 18 in the South East that responded, contractual cost of essential care unnecessarily Step 6 next season.” safeguards are in the they will replace and be switched on from kids’ football. There are no plans correct in our home town,” said Mr Ashwell.

“This the charity says that 11 of them — information supplied, it’s clear we made place wherever a third party top up and that, across England, an estimated The Sumas first team are ground to error expand the club, once we are full we for longer, causing light pollution in the an is the maximum of our ambitions, this is in our own submission. including Wokingham Borough Council is arranged. alsoTown offer but advice older people have relatives paying cannot takestated any more members. sharing with We Henley this and has 50,000 our zenith.” surrounding dwellings.

“We had that third party The top guidance (WBC) and neighbouring Bracknell and to anyone looking to make such a ‘top-up’ towards their care costs, ranging from tens to hundreds of pounds a week. ups were private an arrangement. arrangements Ms Morrison added: “Anyone who “The funding we received for all of our ROTARY between the new Care Act duties has for 2016/17, been is concerned about paying unfair care care home and wrapped into our general formula grant, home fees can speak to one of our the third party which was then cut by over 50 per cent.” advisers for free and confidential advice (usually a relative); Janet Morrison, Chief Executive of on 0800 319 6789 or visit our website they are not, they for more Age, said: “Top-up fees www.independentage.org A BIG band special helpedIndependent boost the are by must be fair, be agreed in writing and be information.” coffersgoverned of a local charity.

Members of the Rotary Club of Wokingham put on their dancing REFURBISHMENT shoes for an evening of music, held at the Hilton St Anne’s Manor Hotel last Friday. Money raised from the evening will go to Wokingham District Cancer Care Trust.

A POST Woodley is After office a meal,in there was dancing to dueMill to close weekBand, whilewho the Tonesfor BigaDance refurbishment works are carried performed a range of hits from the out. and 60s.

1950s Brecon Post Office, athelped The Margaret Balaam, who Parade, the Brecon Road, will arrange evening, told Theclose for up to seven days at some point in Wokingham Paper: “It was fantastic, The Millstones in action March or April to allow the works a very nice evening which was well above. Left: Kathy Bruce, to take place. A poster detailing attended and everyone enjoyed it.

Malcom Bruce, President of the“Iexact dates will be displayed was thrown in at the deep end Wokingham Rotary Club, in the branch at least two weeks Peter Dawkes and Lynn a bit in organising this event as my before.

Dawkes. Pictures: Paul King partner in arranging this had an Once reopened, customers accident but with the help of other will be able to take advantage of “Every single penny Rotarians Trust provides grants for people Rotarians it all came together.” more services at the post office raise goes toward local charity or in the Wokingham District who At the time of going to press the and benefit from longer opening someone in need,” said Ms Balaam. are suffering from cancer or other exact amount raised had not been Road, Twyford,illnesses.

RG10 9EH. between 7.30am and 6pm Monday hours.

“There are no admin costs at all. ” life-threatening For more calculated but was thought to be Customers will also be asked to Saturday, and 7.30am to 12pm The renovation will include Wokingham District Cancer Care details, visit www.wdcct.org more than £1,000. for their feedback once the on Sunday. two new low-screened, open-plan changes have taken place. Details While the work is being carried style service points integrated will be available in the branch out customers are advised to use into the retail counter.

ACCIDENT shortly after the re-opening.

Twyford Post Office, 19 London The post office will now open

Council denies it is ‘failing’ on care

FREE! Valentine’s

Day greetings

Club bands together for charity dance

Show your love with a FREE message

Monday, February 14 is the date for romantics everywhere to show their loved ones how much they care. Our nearest issue to the big day is Friday, February 11 and we want Wokingham’s lovebirds to be able to celebrate in style.

We’re offering everyone the chance to post their loved-up messages for FREE. All you have to do – in 30 words or fewer – is think up your romantic messages. Please, keep them clean! So, if you want to let Snugglepuss know that you want to be their Valentine, this is the place to be!

Your name (we won’t print this):

Phone number: Address:

Email: Send your completed form by Monday, February 8, 2016 to The Wokingham Paper Valentine’s Crown House, 231 King’s Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Alternatively email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk. Messages will be printed in the paper – we reserve the right to edit without prior notification if we consider the message to be unsuitable for a family newspaper.

A red letter day for post office

A flipping lucky escape!

ENVIRONMENT A WOMAN had a lucky escape when her car flipped over in Spencers Wood yesterday morning (Thursday).

The 56-year-old suffered only minor injuries when the Fiat 500 she was driving skidded on the muddy DEVELOPING the biodiversity at spoke at the meeting about the road and ended up on its roof in Cross Lane, near Stanlake Meadow was put under planting carried out last year.

Clappers Farm, at around 8am. the spotlight at a meeting of Some of this had failed and he She managed to get herself out of the vehicle before Twyford Parish Council’s Parish presented two options of new emergency services arrived, but was sent to the Royal Lands Committee earlier this planting to the committee.

Berkshire Hospital to be checked over. The road was month.

It was agreed that a hedge closed while the vehicle was recovered.

Network Rail’s Mike Franklin, of hawthorn, privet, dogwood,

New planting scheme for Stanlake Meadow guilder rose and hazel will be planted along the boundary where there is a new acoustic fence.

Watering is not recommended as this encourages root development too close to the surface.

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Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

The research group: Peter Allington, Peter Dawe, Brian Hoare, Paul King (editor and pictured below), Ken Lowe, Linda Lowe, Julia McLaren and Joan Watts.

Also pictured are Wokingham Society members Peter Must (Chairman), John Griffin (ViceChairman) and Hazel Guile (Planning Officer).

Picture: Paul King

TRANSPORT

New parking fees could create ‘safety risk’ EXCLUSIVE

such charges already, parking is free at the affected times to those in Windsor and Maidenhead who have a free Advantage card; in specified car parks in Henley and also in Marlow, which additionally has a number of free car parks.

“Thus people in this wider area will have a good reason to avoid Wokingham Borough and go to these other centres for their retail and leisure activities in the evenings and on Sundays.”

The Society also has safety concerns for people needing to buy a ticket in the dark.

Mr Must said: “There is a safety risk to people on their own, especially single females, in having to leave their cars to find and feed a meter.

“They may well be deterred from coming into town and would thus feel excluded from the retail and social facilities otherwise on offer to them.”

And Wokingham’s famous street fayres – in May and November – could also be affected by plans to introduce parking charges on bank holidays.

The Society said: “The Bank Holiday charge would adversely affect the festivals and carnivals local people work so hard to run

By PHIL CREIGHTON news@wokinghampaper.co.uk PLANS to introduce parking fees in borough car parks at evenings, weekends and bank holidays have been strongly criticised by The Wokingham Society.

The group has written to Wokingham Borough Council outlining its opposition to a £1 charge being introduced from April. It says any charge would damage the local economy and could damage the town centre’s regeneration project.

It also expressed concerns over the council’s claim that the fee would bring its car parks in line with other local councils.

Peter Must, chairman of the group which is dedicated to combatting “thoughtless development”, said: “While we appreciate the difficult financial circumstances which the council faces in the light of successive cuts in central Government grant, we are convinced that this is not an appropriate measure to increase income to the council.”

He added: “Contrary to claims of direct comparison with other local centres which are said to have

for the benefit and enjoyment of the local community.”

The plan has also been slated by Wokingham Labour.

Party spokesperson Andy Croy said: ““These parking charges are the thin end of a very long an thick wedge.

“First they will charge £1, because it’s only £1. Next it will be £1.50, because it is only 50p more.

Then it will be £2.50... because people are already used to paying.

“Then it will be £3.50 because that was the plan all along. And all because we allowed them to get away with ‘just’ a £1.

“Having said that, the councillors do need to fund their pay rises. It’s a tragedy that the richest borough in the country is reduced to trying to fund itself off the back of parking fees” Cllr John Kaiser, executive member for planning and highways, said: “The consultation closes on February 5 and so far we have received many comments and views. Once the consultation ends we will consider them in detail before a final decision is made on February 16.”

HISTORY

Read all about it! Life in 1901 A NEW book lifts the lid on life in Wokingham more than 100 years ago.

A team of researchers from the Wokingham Society have compiled Late Victorian Wokingham, offering insights into the borough’s life in 1901.

Compiled using data from the 1901 Census, newspapers and other records of the time, the book is a sequel to one written 30 years ago and based on the 1851 census.

The team came together at Wokingham Town Hall last Thursday to mark the launch.

Peter Must, Chairman of the Wokingham Society, said: “We are delighted to have been asked to publish this very important Offers valid from 27th January - 29th February contribution to Wokingham’s social history, and we congratulate

the group on the thoroughness and enthusiasm that is reflected in its pages.”

The book has been edited

by Paul King, who said: “During this project we have learnt an enormous amount about life in 1901 Wokingham and how it had changed over the previous fifty years. We hope our readers will have as much enjoyment in perusing the book as we have had in researching the various topics.”

The book is on sale in Wokingham Town Hall, Bookends in Peach Street and Wokingham Library. It costs £9.50 and can also be ordered by cheque made payable to The Wokingham Society from WS Books, 4 The Bowers, Wokingham, RG40 3JX. P&P is free in the UK.

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6 | NEWS

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

MEETING

Garden scheme will be focus of association talk

THE National Garden Scheme will be the theme of the next meeting of Wokingham’s Horticultural Association.

Heather Skinner will be the guest speaker at the event, which takes place at Wokingham Methodist Church on Tuesday.

Starting at 7.45pm, the event costs £1 for members and £2 for visitors and includes refreshments.

For more details, log on to www.w-h-a.org.uk

MARRIAGE

A gem of a day for bridesto-be at town cricket club

A WEDDING fair is to take place at Wokingham Cricket Club on Sunday.

The event offers brides-to-be the chance to meet with wedding and event professionals and find out more about the services that the venue can provide.

The event runs from 11am to 3.30pm at the Sadlers End venue. For more details, call 0118 973 7823.

‘Suffragettes’ Jean Atkins, Melanie Allen and Alison Davis with ‘police officer’ William Foulkes. They are also pictured left with a stand highlighting the Wokingham Film Society showing of the Suffragettes film. Pictures: Paul King

CRIME

SOCIETY

Alarm scares off would-be Spencers Wood car thieves

Suffragettes steal the show on film night

AN ATTEMPTED break-in was foiled when a car alarm went off.

On Monday, thieves tried to access a van which was parked in Beatty Rise, Spencers Wood.

However, they left the scene after the vehicle’s alarm was triggered. It is thought the incident took place between 8.55pm and 9.55pm.

If you have any information which could help police call 101 or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A FILM club went to town for its latest screening… well, the town hall.

Last Thursday evening, members of the Wokingham Film Society dressed up as Suffragettes for a special showing of the film of the same name.

They gathered at Wokingham’s town hall for the event, which was followed by a question and answer session with Kerry Renshaw of the Oxford University Adult Education Programme.

Club secretary Rob Atkins told The Wokingham Paper: “He gave a very well-received talk afterwards

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which set the film in context, drawing attention to the fact that many men didn’t have the vote at the time either and that the issue was far more complex politically than portrayed in the film.”

Mr Atkins also appreciated the way in which the club’s members recreated the Suffragette campaign.

He said: “The Town Hall was dressed for the occasion with banners and rosettes and several of our volunteers were dressed in Edwardian costume with suffragette sashes. We even had an Edwardian policeman on crowd control duty.

“We got a bumper crowd who, based on our feedback sheets really enjoyed the film and our excellent speaker.” n On Thursday, the Film Society will be back with a special Valentine’s themed screening.

The group will show Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris at the Bradbury Centre in Rose Street.

The cast includes Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams and Kathy Bates.

Doors open at 7pm and tickets, at £6.50, are available on the door. For more details, visit www. wokinghamfilmsociety.com

WOODLEY

Council to spend a penny over toilet

By VIVIENNE JOHNSON vjohnson@wokinghampaper.co.uk “OVERWHELMING” public support means a new toilet will be built in Woodley.

The town council has pledged to install the facilities in a town centre car park following an independent survey which saw 63% of residents say they wanted a public convenience built.

Negotiations with Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) will now take place for the use of two parking spaces in the Waitrose car park, which is where the new facility will be located.

Councillor Keith Baker, leader of Woodley Town Council, told The Wokingham Paper: “The question of whether a public toilet was wanted was added to the regular survey carried out by Woodley Town Council. We made a firm commitment to build the toilets if the majority of people wanted it.”

At the moment, like the rest of the

borough, many place in Woodley participate in the Local Loo scheme, which sees their facilities offered to the public to use.

Liberal Democrat councillor Kay Gilder, told The Wokingham Paper: “The Local Loo scheme includes the library, which is not always open, the doctor’s surgery, where you have to walk upstairs and the Oakwood which is away from the town centre. None of which are signposted.

“Market traders who start work early in the morning have nowhere to go as the Local Loo businesses aren’t open.”

Cllr Baker added that before the Local Loo scheme came in there planing work had started on installing a new toilet.

He said: “We had got to a stage where installation and running costs [of the toilet] had been identified, which the council tax payers would have to subsidise.

“We had also found a location, a supplier and were in discussions with WBC about the loss of two car parking spaces. We were 80% along the process.

“However, at this point, several years had passed and the Local Loo scheme was up and running so a number of residents thought the £100,000 capital it would take to buy and install a toilet and the £14,000 a year running costs were too much.”

Woodley Labour councillor Nicky Jerrome, said the toilet is the result of a successful Labour campaign.

She said: “The consultation confirms what we have known for many years: there is overwhelming local support for a decent replacement of the public toilets which were lost.

“Labour’s campaign has made the council ask residents a straight question and residents have given a straight answer.”

Cllr Baker added: “The first step is to complete negotiations with WBC about the loss of two car parking spaces in Crockhamwell Road car park. Once this has been agreed we will put a planning application in and then retender.”

EMPLOYMENT

Boost your career chances with job seeker workshops JOB seekers are invited to take part in three workshops running this month.

The Wokingham Job Support Centre in Norreys Avenue is running the free events aimed at helping people get back to work.

On Monday (February 8) they will hold a CV workshop, offering tips and advice to

refreshing resumés ahead of applying for roles.

An interview workshop will be held on Monday, February 22, in special one-to-one sessions aimed at coaching participants when it comes to tricky questions.

Then the following day, Tuesday,

February 23, there will be an over 50s workshop aimed at exploring the potential of transferable skills and celebrating the knowledge accumulated over five decades.

Each session runs from 10.30am to 12.30pm. To book call 0118 977 0517.

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8 | NEWS

Parish noticeboard Monday, February 8 Wokingham Borough Council SACRE (Standing advisory council on religious education). 11am.

Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1BN

Tuesday, February 9 Wokingham Borough Council Council public question deadline. 10am.

Sonning Parish Full Council Meeting. 7.30pm. Sports Pavilion, King George V Playing Field, Pound Lane, Sonning Barkham Parish Full Council Meeting. 7.30pm.

Barkham Village Hall, Church Lane, Barkham, RG40 4PL Woodley Town Council Full Meeting. 8pm. The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road, Headley Road, Woodley, RG5 4JZ

Wednesday, February 10 Wokingham Borough Council Audit Committee. 7pm.

Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1BN Finchampstead Roads and RS Meeting. 7.30pm.

Parish Office, FBC Centre, Gorse Ride, North Finhampstead, RG40 4ES

Thursday, February 11 Crowthorne Parish Council Walter Rec charity meeting. 10am. Crowthorne Parish Hall, 48 Heath Hill Road South, Crowthorne RG45 7BW Wokingham Borough Council Health and Wellbeing Board. 5pm. Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1BN

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To advertise email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk n A 32-year-old man from Hurst is due to appear in court today (Friday) charged with assault.

Samuel Gordon Veitch, of Dunt Lane, will appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court charged with assault by beating.

Mr Veitch denied the charge when he appeared at the same court on December 23.

The charge relates to an incident in Wokingham on October 27 last year. n A 31-year-old man has been jailed for stealing six bottles of vodka, an item of clothing and assault.

Craig Cripps, of no fixed abode, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on December 29 charged with stealing the alcohol, to the value of £135, from Morrisons in Woosehill on December 7, stealing a gilet to the value of £34.30 from Hollister in Reading on December 20, and assaulting a woman near The Oracle shopping centre on the same day.

Mr Phipps pleaded guilty to the charges, and was committed to prison for 12 weeks. n A WOMAN from Earley has pleaded guilty to assault.

Christine Cimmino, 51, of Faygate Way, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on December 29 charged with assaulting another woman on October 29.

Ms Cimmino was fined £65, ordered to pay compensation of £100, and a victim surcharge of £20. n A MAN from Wokingham has pleaded guilty to public order offences.

Stewart Charles Gosling, 53, of Patten Ash Drive, was handed a conditional

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

From the courts

during an incident in Lower Earley on October 15, contrary to the Public Order Act 1986.

Mrs Hatton was ordered to pay compensation of £50 and costs of £85. n A WOMAN from Wokingham has pleaded guilty to drink driving.

Anna Pacula, 48, of Nine Mile Ride, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 4 where she admitted driving a car while over the alcohol limit on December 18.

Ms Pacula was fined £330, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £33, costs of £85, and disqualified from holding a licence for 28 months.

discharge for 12 months after he used threatening or abusive words or behaviour, or disorderly behaviour, likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress on December 8.

Mr Gosling was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £15, and costs of £85 when he appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on December 29. n A MAN from Woodley has been handed a conditional discharge for 12 months for attempting to steal a bicycle.

Ian Devereaux, 32, of Hearn Road, pleaded guilty to attempted theft on December 9.

Appearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court on December 29, Mr Devereaux was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £15 and costs of £85. n A MAN from Winnersh has been

fined more than £400 for driving while over the alcohol limit.

Michael John Wallace, 46, or Arbor Lane, pleaded guilty to the charge when he appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on December 30.

The charge relates to an incident on December 16 when Mr Wallace was found to be driving a Ford Focus while over the limit.

He was fined £430, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £43, costs of £85, and was disqualified from holding a licence for two years. n A WOMAN from Earley has pleaded guilty to public order offences.

Debbie Karen Hattam, 51, of Elderberry Way, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 4 where she admitted using threatening or abusive words or disorderly behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress

n A MAN from Finchampstead has been fined £400 for stealing alcohol from Waitrose.

James David Round, 31, of Orbit Close, pleaded guilty to stealing the items, to the value of £85.24, on December 20.

Appearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 4, Mr Round was fined £400, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £40 and costs of £85. n A 30-year-old man from Three Mile Cross has pleaded guilty to drink driving.

Csaba Varga, of Mereoak Park, appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on January 4 where he admitted driving a car while over the alcohol limit.

Mr Varga was caught driving on the A33 in Reading with 191 milligrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood on November 7.

He was fined £360, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £36, costs of £85, and disqualified from holding a licence for 18 months.

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CRIME DEVELOPMENT

One step at aBurns time Night celebrates

Conmen steal £240 after It’s official - garrison site named Arborfield Green confusing shop’s cashier

THE name of a newduped development Arborfield A TRIO of conmen a cashieratout of more Garrison announced last week following than £240was during a distraction burglary at a a public poll. shop.

Wokingham Arborfield Green been announced At around 5pm onhas Saturday the men as the runaway winner after residents were entered the shop in the BPlocal garage on asked to come up with ideas.

Wokingham Road.

The was drawn from more Twoshortlist of them approached the till andthan one fifty names submitted by residents, asked to buypreviously some cigarette papers, before Parish and interested groups. asking Councils the cashier toother change £200 into £20 and wereinto circulated £10Some notes9,500 themleaflets some notes coins inlocally order inviting residents to choose their favourite to confuse the cashier. from a shortlist of five.

When a second staff member came over, Crestto Nicholson’s theHugo third Reeve, man started talk to him, while the development director, “Weto have second man near the tillsaid: started get agitated had consultation to select a withextensive the cashier. marketing village The menname thenfor leftthis thenew shopgarden with their community, and we£240 now have by original £200, plus of tillone money. democratic If anyonevote. has any information regarding this “We will now be asking our designValley team to incident they should call the Thames create a visual identity for the new Arborfield Police enquiry centre on 101.

Green community.”

is inspirational Bonita’s message

his wife, Cyndy Price-Finnie.

Mr Sim then addressed the Mr Livingstone said: “It was haggis by reading a traditional a fabulous night for the Burns’ poem, which second year running. It starts “Fair fa’ your was a full house and honest, sonsie face, now a regular fixture Great chieftain o when she was just 22. that all members the puddin’-race!”

Last week, the former Holt look forward to.

During his dramatic School pupil took part in Sheffield “The toasts were reading, from High School’s body positivity outstanding and the memory, Mr Sim week, talking to pupils about her singing went down slit the haggis ready experiences as a climber and a treat. to be served and encouraging them to take one step “Feedback was first it ended with guests at a time to achieve anything. She class from all and the meal raising a toast to the beast. also talked about the benefits of was really outstanding.

The Immortal Memory speech fuelling your body correctly to be “It was a real credit to the folks was given by Colin Livingstone, strong, rather than be thin. who did all the work on the night while the toast to the lassies was The schools taking part were and before.” given by Bill Finnie. Replying was delighted with their special guest.

Julian Wood, deputy head teacher of Wybourn Community Primary School in Sheffield, said: “Our pupils were inspired and enthused by her experiences. She is a fantastic example of outdoor learning.”

And Ms Norris also enjoyed her visit, which included a demonstration of her climbing skills.

She said: “It was such a pleasure visiting the pupils at the school, they were so inquisitive and full of energy. I’m pleased that I was able to share my experiences and inspire the children.”

The visit was organised by lingerie, sport and swimwear F_BAR_10578 Austen House WOW open day advert - Wokingham Paper - 284x170mm V2.qxp_Layout 1 11/01/2016 17:50 Page 1 specialists Panache.

ROBERT BURNS was celebrated

by Wokingham’s Bowling Club on Friday night in a truly Scottish celebration.

The Reading Road clubhouse was packed with people wanting to

By PHIL CREIGHTON celebrate the life and works of the news@wokinghampaper.co.uk poet at a now annual supper.

More than 90 people A WOKINGHAM womancame who along toMount the event, which tackled Everest tookincluded time out singing Burns songs led by from herofmountaineering schedule to singing duo Davaar – aka Colin inspire schoolchildren to take life one Livingstone and Paul Gallagher. step at a time.

At the start of was the meal, Bonita Norris the the committee was piped in by youngest British woman toReading reach Scottish PipeofBand’s Sim. the summit MountCharlie Everest – He played the haggis was shealso climbed theassummit in 2010 brought in by Sue Thomson.

MUSIC TALK

Concert bandand to raise Come along meetthe roof with ‘best of best’ quadruple THE best of 2015 isamputee the promise fromRay a local

Bonita Norris, above, left and inset, was in Sheffield inspiring young people.

WOKINGHAM’S newest Rotarian, band as they prepare for their latestRay concert Edwards, is holding a Night With Ray at this weekend.

Sandhurst Community on Thursday at Trinity Concert BandCentre will return to 7pm.

Trinity Church in Lower Earley tomorrow Mr(Saturday) Edwards istoaperform quadruple amputeeof and will night a selection be speaking and by answering questions on what music as chosen its audience members promises to be anover interesting from its concerts the pastand 12inspiring evening. months.

GET THE LATEST The music starts at 7.30pm andNEWS tickets cost £12 on the door. Accompanied under 16s can FACEBOOK & TWITTER: get in for free.

Money raised from the concert will go to the charity Brass For Africa. n For more details, log on to www. trinityband.co.uk/the-best-of-2015.

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10 | BUSINESS

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Business DEVELOPMENT

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

Got a business story? Email news@wokingham paper.co.uk. or write to The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

FUNDING

Small firms miss out on council contracts ‘due to paperwork’ LOCAL authorities are blocking smaller businesses from competing for public sector contracts, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has warned.

Their comments come in the light of new research from the Electrical Contractors’ Association which shows that more than two thirds of councils are neglecting to use a simplified procurement tool recommended for use across the public sector.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: “It’s no wonder that construction SMEs struggle to win public contracts, when even at the first hurdle, local authorities are failing them.

“Using standardised pre-qualification questionnaires like PAS 91 is crucial for reducing costs and ensuring that smaller companies have a level playing field in bidding for public sector contracts.

“This is why Central Government has mandated the use of this system and the Local Government Association has backed its use by local authorities.

“Without a consistent template, even the preliminary stages of a bid become resource intensive, lending an unfair advantage to the larger contractors who have the capacity to absorb paperwork.

“For smaller construction companies – 40% of whom fail to win nine out of 10 public sector contracts – it creates another unnecessary barrier to what used to be an important market for them.”

TO LET

Kickstarter appeal launched by IBS friendly food company A WOKINGHAM-based food company that helps sufferers of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is appealing for help to grow its range.

Fodify Foods, which is based in Commons Road, are marketing a range of foods including a pasta sauce and curry sauce and has launched a Kickstarter campaign.

Dieticians Janet Hopkins and Hannah Hunter realised there was a gap in the market for ‘off the shelf’ foods that sufferers with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

(IBS) could cook with.

Ms Hopkins said: “IBS is a complex condition and sufferers have to avoid common foods such as onions and garlic.

“We founded Fodify Foods to produce low FODMAP foods. This means they don’t contain fermentable carbohydrates for those who suffer from IBS or a sensitive digestive system.”

And in the few months since they launched, the duo feel they have found a gap in the market.

“We believe we are the number

one company in the UK supplying IBS products,” Ms Hopkins said. “Our initial range of products will include a tomato pasta sauce and a curry sauce. These

sauces can be used to make a number of dishes and will be dairy and gluten free.

“We want to raise awareness about IBS and our Kickstarter campaign which closes at the end of February.”

Fodify Foods are looking to raise £12,500 by February 28. Backers are given various thank you rewards depending on the amount pledged, including free jars of Fodify sauces, a seasonal low FODMAP guide and a consultation with a dietician. For more details, log on to www.fodify.co.uk

CAREERS

All aboard for the young stars

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk YOUNG talent from a local transport company were recently given the opportunity to enhance their careers through a special training event.

Fourteen of Reading Buses younger employees were given a career development opportunity by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).

The company serves Wokingham, Lower Earley and Woodley with a range of bus services including the Lion and Leopard services.

The event, aligned to CILT’s ‘Young Professionals Forum,’ was aimed at those aged 35 and under either working in – or looking to join – the transport and logistics industry.

An impressive 20% of Reading Buses workforce falls into the target age range and the company invited all employees in the age bracket to take part Reading Buses also had a stand at the event to promote career options in the bus industry. A special ‘sports person sticker card’ style display showcased the large number of roles undertaken within the company by its younger people.

Chief Executive Officer Martijn Gilbert said: “We

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Moving on up: Young Reading Buses staff during an event focusing on career progression.

set out to demonstrate that the passenger transport industry is a great place to work.

“We also showed that Reading Buses is at the forefront of recruiting and developing some of the very best young people, supported by an equal mix of very experienced, knowledgeable and long serving employees who are also probably some of the longest serving in our sector.

“It is people who ultimately make our company what it is and it is great to have such a diverse and inclusive workforce who help us to meaningfully understand – and equally represent – our wide ranging customer base, enabling us to deliver the best possible services to them each and every day.”

Speakers included Beverley Bell, president of

CILT and Senior Traffic Commissioner, Paul Brooks and Andy Kaye from recruiters BiS Henderson and Bethany Fovargue, the current holder of the ‘Woman of the Year’ title from the 2015 Multimodal Awards.

Mr Gilbert, who is 33, said he would not be doing what he does today if it was not for the insight and networking opportunities that events like this provided.

He added: “Our industry is continually changing and with the emergence of new technologies it’s probably now changing at a faster rate than it’s ever done before. This is a great industry in which to work and there are plenty of roles to choose from, with some good progression routes and very rewarding careers for those who want them.”

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Catch the bus to flat-pack giant Ikea TWO bus routes are to be extended to bring public transport to the new Ikea store.

Reading Buses has revealed that the yellow 26 route and the sky blue 15 services will be stopping at the Calcot based store, which is due to open this summer.

And the new routes are part of the Simply Reading fare zone, meaning tickets can be purchased on the buses that serve Wokingham, Woodley and Lower Earley.

Passengers can catch a Lion or Leopard into Reading town centre and then catch another bus to go straight to Ikea.

The yellow 26 operating from Reading

via Southcote and Beansheaf every eight to 10 minutes, while the 15 operates half hourly during the week and a weekend service will also be provided to serve the store seven days a week from early to late by both routes.

Martijn Gilbert, chief executive officer of Reading Buses, said: “As people start to consider the new job opportunities at Ikea we thought it important to bring forward the announcement of our plans to serve the store so that people could understand what transport links will be available.

“We’re really looking forward to the store opening and believe that with two of our popular routes being extended to

serve the store, the bus will provide an attractive transport choice for workers and shoppers alike.”

And the company aims to provide bus services that will match the store’s hours, including key shift change times, making it easy for staff to get to and from Ikea.

“The improvements to the sky blue 15, which will commence on a trial basis, will also bring huge benefits to those living beyond Dee Park and in the Mayfair area who will have a new weekend service on the route.”

A full timetable and route details will be published nearer to the store’s opening date.

NEWS | 11

Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

WINDOWS & DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

The eight Civic Awards winners gather for a group shot with the town’s dignitaries. Pictures: Phil Creighton

REPLACEMENT ROOFS

AWARDS

Wokingham’s magnificent 8

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk SOME of Wokingham’s tireless volunteers were honoured at a special awards ceremony held last weekend.

The Civic Awards were presented to eight local people for their voluntary work among the town.

Recipients included a school governor, two dedicated church members and two helpers with the Poppy Appeal.

Hundreds of people packed out Wokingham’s Town Hall to witness the presentations on Friday, January 29.

Prior to their award, each recipient’s story was told by someone who knew them well. Then, they received their honour from Wokingham Town Mayor, Cllr Philip Mirfin.

Each of the recipients had been chosen by a panel that included the High Steward for Wokingham Lady Elizabeth Godsal and The Wokingham Paper publisher Phil Creighton.

Edwin Weaver has been volunteering for more than 30 years and received his honour for his

work with the Wokingham Poppy Appeal. He also helps with other local organisations including WADE. Also receiving an award for her work with the Wokingham Poppy Appeal was Sue Lardge.

Barbara and David Knee’s volunteer work at The Bradbury Centre, part of Wokingham Methodist Church, netted them their award, while a lifetime’s work with the Scouting movement – particularly the 3rd Wokingham branch – saw Malcolm Hollings honoured.

Melanie Allen was given an award for her work among the community including More Arts, the Winter Carnival, the Town Team and other town events.

Geoff Wilde was honoured for his support for St Crispin’s School, where he has been chair of the governors and also for his work with Citizens Advice.

An award was given to Colin Antink for his work with Thames Hospice.

Speaking at the end of the evening, Cllr Mirfin said: “Congratulations to all award winners.”

Town Mayor Cllr Philip Mirfin with Edwin Weaver.

BI-FOLD DOORS Mel Allen.

FASCIAS AND SOFFITS Barbara and David Knee.

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12 | NEWS

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INGHAM Calling time on cold callers CRIME

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

CHARITY

Cheers to a fundraising success

S&&LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING across the Thames Valley

A SCHEME to stamp out nuisance doorstep A NIGHT of music and fun at an Eversley visitors across the Thames Valley has seen pub last weekend had a serious purpose. more than 80 No Cold Calling Zones set up.

The Chequers raised almost £1,400 Last January, Trading Standards and Thames for Cancer Research UK as the first part Valley Police teamed upTel: to set0118 up No Cold 9733414 of a Finchampstead man’s fundraising Calling Zones in the borough. campaign.

Mob: 07920 524500 To date, 81 are in place with a further Joe Dimmock organised Saturday’s fun pending. It includes the entire village of Email:19wokinghamdriveways@gmail.com day after two of his friends were diagnosed Sonning, with 652 premises. with the disease. ad Road The | Wokingham | Berksnever | RG40 3RB scheme advises residents to He said: “I’ve always been aware of engage with people selling goods or services DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPING cancer but never been in a situation where on the doorstep. Also from time to time the I have had friends who have to deal with it, Police send out messages about particular up until now. sellers involved in doorstep trading and who to “This year two of my friends, one who look out for and types of business they may be is like family to me and who is the most Sarin Tel: 0118 9733414 .Tony . TURFING running. . FENCING & GATES amazing man, have been diagnosed with PATIOS 07920 524500 Currently, there are warnings aboutMob: roofing, cancer.” . SHED . BLOCK-PAVING BASES property maintenance and driveway companies Email: wokinghamdriveways@gmail.com Helping Joe is campaign manager .who may do doorstep and/or aEXTENSIONS leaflet REPAIRS ORselling DRIVE Karen White. She said: “The event at The 436 Finchampstead Road | Wokingham | Berks | RG40 3RB drop. .

Chequers was a roaring success. The GARDEN MAINTENANCE ngs Thames Valley Police are keen to extend house was definitely full and we raised an . PROFESSIONAL the scheme further. For more details, email CLEANING DRIVEWAY amazing £1,400 on the night from a raffle christine.seal@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk and silent auction.

DRIVEWAYS &&LANDSCAPING DRIVEWAYS LANDSCAPING Caz, Katie, Joe Dimmock, Sandra and Jorja. Picture: Karen White “Jordan Marr, director of Peach Pubs TALK tical illness & income protection plans tical illness & income protection plans n the convenience of your home GASTRONOMY n the convenience your home Tel: 0118 9733414 .Tony Sarin.of . TURFING FENCING & GATES ngs & childPATIOS trust funds Mob: 07920 524500 ngs & child funds . SHED . BLOCK-PAVING MENtrust are being invited to have breakfast with BASES performance analysisEmail: wokinghamdriveways@gmail.com a Lord. . performance analysis REPAIRS Road OR DRIVE EXTENSIONS 436 Finchampstead | Wokingham | Berks | RG40 3RB The Reading Churches Men’s Group will market options market options . GARDEN MAINTENANCE hold its first breakfast of 2016 at Reading Blue . PROFESSIONAL pensions Life assurance, critical illnessDRIVEWAY & income protection plans CLEANING Life assurance, & income protection pensions Coat Schoolcritical at 8amillness on Saturday, February 13, plans Financial reviews in the convenience of your home . . anning s@googlemail.com wokinghamdriveways.co.uk where the guest speaker will be07920 Lord Michael Financial reviews in the convenience of your home500 0118 973 3414 524 anning Investments, & child trust funds Farmer. savings Investments, savings & child trust funds nsfers nsfers With profits fund performance analysis He has been asked to speak on the theme advice Independent financial With profits fund performance analysis Independent financial advice It’s A Rich Man’s World? and will be exploring Annuities & open market options

By PHIL CREIGHTON for a secure future Annuities & open market options for a secure future news@wokinghampaper.co.uk how&hegroup has combined Personal pensionsbeing a partner of a Personal & group pensions hedge fund with being a Christian. . wokinghamdriveways.co.uk Inheritance Tax planning an wokinghamdriveways@googlemail.com Inheritance Taxwhich planning A COMPANY that is promising healthy, Places, include a full English Life assurance, critical illness & income protection plans ISAs & ISA/PEP transfers Life assurance, critical illness & income protection Authorised and regulated by theplans FSA nutritious home cooked food delivered to ISAs & ISA/PEP transfers breakfast, cost £10 and can be booked by Authorised and regulated byhome the FSA Financial reviews in the convenience of your ents Financial reviews in the convenience of your home your doorstep is getting ready to launch in Investments, savings on & child trust funds calling John Broady 0118 954 3879 or John Investments, savings & child trust funds Wokingham later this month.

With profits fund986 performance analysis Ledger on 0118 1917.

With profits fund performance analysis Annuities & open market options Supper.co.uk is a new take on home Places should confirmed Annuities & open be market options by Tuesday, Personal & group pensionsAuthorised and regulated by delivered the FSA food – customers download a Personal & group pensions he February 9. and regulated by the FSA . wokinghamdriveways.co.uk Inheritance Tax planning Authorised wokinghamdriveways@googlemail.com free app, book a meal created by a local Inheritance Tax planning ISAs & ISA/PEP transfers ISAs &320430 ISA/PEP transfers 3 Mobile CRIME 07768 Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk chef and then it is brought to their homes 3 Mobile 07768 320430 Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk ready to eat. Meals offered have all been , Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6HS , Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6HS Tony Ltd checked by a Harley Street nutritionist Tony Welsh Welsh of of Susan Susan Fleck Fleck Associates Associates Ltd to ensure they are healthy and use fresh Authorised regulated by the FSA Tel/Fax 01344 466173 Mobile 07768 320430and Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk Authorised and regulated by the FSA Tel/Fax 01344 402 466173 Mobile 07768 320430 Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk Tel 0118 Mobile 07768 A and other garden RG45 tools have 320430 ingredients, giving customers peace of Duncan Scott and Nick Bolter from Supper.co.uk.

Address 5 LAWNMOWER The Paddock,8978 Crowthorne, Berkshire 6HS Address 5 The Paddock, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6HS stolen from a Wargrave property. mind about their intake of calories, fat, here: the duo behind the business are Mr Bolter said: “We were working long Email been tony@tonywelshifa.co.uk Tony Welsh of Susan Fleck Associates Ltd Sometime last week, thieves forced the Independent Financial Adviser hours, he was working in the City, I was coming back to their home territory Tony Welsh of Susan Fleck Associates salt Ltdand sugar. padlock on a466173 shed door Mumbery Hill, Tel/Fax 01344 Mobile in 07768 320430 Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk Meals are created by ordinary people Both CEO Duncan Scott and head working just outside of the City, 10 hour Tel/Fax 01344 402 466173 Mobile 07768 320430 Email tony@independent-ifa.co.uk Tel 0118 07768 320430 Address 5 The Paddock,8978 Crowthorne,Mobile Berkshire RG45 6HS accessing the equipment. who love cooking, in their own homes. of personnel Nick Bolter grew up in days if not more. You don’t eat very well Address 5 The Paddock, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6HS Email tony@tonywelshifa.co.uk Thames Valley Police said that the theft The company’s approach is that chefs can the borough and, following last year’s – we’re talking about dried pizza and work as often or as little as they like. successful launch of Supper.co.uk in picking up another ready meal. occurred sometime between 5pm on Monday, “The idea for Supper.co.uk came from a Wokingham is only the second place in London, they are looking forward to January 25, and 8am on Monday, February 1. nd regulated by by the Financial Conduct Authority horised and regulated the Financial Services Authority, 447018 discussion around that, asking what can the country that Supper.co.uk will serve – bringing their magic recipe here.

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447018 nville Road, Maidstone, Kentand ME14 2BJ Authorised regulated the Financial Conduct Authority no. 447018 Registration Number AJW00121 Susan Fleckhelp Associates LtdKent is call authorised and by the Financial Services Authority, registration It all started when the duo worked in we do about it.” and it is planning to expand. But there is a police 101 orregulated callby Crimestoppers nville Road, Maidstone, ME14 2BJ Susan Fleck Associates Ltd is authorised and regulated byKent the Financial Head Office: Granville House, Granville Road, Maidstone, ME14 2BJServices Authority, registration no. 447018 Registration Number AJW00121 Head Office: Granville House, Granville Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 2BJ The pair started a programme of the City. special reason for the company launching anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

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[which runs The Chequers] generously provided the venue, a prize in the raffle worth £200 and donated 2.5% of the evening’s takings. Fabulous local singer, John James Newman also played on the night.

“I would like to thank a few of the local businesses who have not only provided raffle prizes some have done so much more. The Chequers, Nirvana Spa, Pulse 8 – where Joe is doing his training [for a charity bike ride], Berkshire Specialist Cars, Monsoon Indian in Hartley Witney, London Irish, Sportography to name but a few.

“So far we have raised almost £4,000.”

Joe will now take part in a bike ride from Glasgow to The Chequers in early April.

He said: “I really need your support to help me raise as much money as we can.

There are not enough flowers and cards in the world that can help kill cancer.”

To donate, log on to www.justgiving/ Joe-Dimmock.com

Hedge fund Lord speaks advice Independent financial Independent financial at men’s church breakfast advice for for a a secure secure future future

Local foodies hope they’ve got the recipe for success with Supper app

Tony Welsh

Tony Welsh

h of Fleck Ltd dent Financial Adviser h of Susan Susan Fleck Associates Associates Ltd 8978Gardening Mobile 07768 320430 tools taken Independent Financial Adviser onywelshifa.co.uk during shed break-in

Tony Welsh

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DEVELOPMENT

For a modern facility, read University’s library revamp

g

Aerial, satellite and home entertainment A £40million project to redevelop and installations and servicing refurbish the library at the University Small Local Company of Reading is due to start in June.

Small Local Company Small Local Company Bad reception problems solved Multi television points The second phase of the complete  Bad reception problems solved Network/data cablesolved Flat screen TV mounting modernisation and revamp of Bad reception problems Multi television points Small Local Company  Multi points television pointsHome cinema installation Sky TV Telephone the library will increase space for r:

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pairs

market research to find out what else was out there.

Mr Bolter said: “It quickly became apparent that no one ticked the boxes that we wanted to: we would do home cooking in a new format. We wanted to do the nutritional side well. Market research said it was feasible.”

And so the idea for Supper.co.uk was born: an app that you have on your phone, allowing you to book a home cooked meal made by local chefs and delivered to your door. It launched in August last year in London and on February 16 the idea comes to Wokingham.

“We want to have dishes that are unavailable in a traditional takeaway format. We’re a bit more of a bespoke food delivery service and that gives us the edge.”

The Wokingham section of Supper’s website and app is now available. Log on to supper.co.uk to find out more. The service launches on Tuesday, February 16.

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individual and group study, and will make better use of the space currently available on the ground and first floors.

The major redevelopment comes after the first £4.4m phase revamped the study spaces and furniture on the second, third, fourth and fifth floors.

The redevelopment will provide better access and security across the building as well as improving its energy efficiency. New lifts will be installed, and an improved service for borrowing and returning books will be put into place. The exterior of the building will be totally re-clad and will have replacement windows fitted throughout.

The library will remain fully operational to students across the entirety of the redevelopment, with work anticipated to be completed by the end of 2019.

The University’s Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell said: “The library has always played a central role in our life and work, with its location at the very heart of the University’s Whiteknights campus.

“We have invested £4.4m in the top four floors of the Library as a first phase of redevelopment and this major new investment of £40m will complete the project.

“We will combine traditional and crucial functions such as book and journal collections with group study facilities, great digital access and multi-purpose spaces.

“Our library has never been a static, sepulchral space. It has continued to

An artist’s impression of how the new library will look at the University of Reading.

evolved over its 50 year history and as these excellent new facilities become available to students and staff.”

Planning permission for the project was granted by Reading Borough Council in December.

NEWS | 13

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Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

TRANSPORT

A329 link road work gets underway

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk IT MIGHT not look like much, but this is the future.

Work has started on a new road that will eventually link the A329 with King Street Lane in Winnersh and is part of the Hatch Farm Dairies development.

When finished, the new road should minimise the impact of the development which will see 433 homes built on the land near to the Showcase Cinema.

The application for the scheme states the road’s key function is to relieve traffic congestion at the Winnersh crossroads junction and that it has been a long-time council priority.

In a joint statement to The Wokingham Paper, Bovis Homes and Persimmon Homes, who are building the Hatch Farm Dairies project, said: “We’re proud to be working on this exciting scheme which has been subject to extensive technical studies and scrutiny

over a number of years in full conjunction with the Local Planning Authority, Environment Agency and the respective consultants.

“The much anticipated link road, which we are delivering without subsidy, is a key part of this and will provide a safe route between Winnersh and Reading at times of extreme flooding, when other roads are likely to be closed.

“Built on an embankment with two bridges and nine culverts, it has long been regarded as essential infrastructure for the area by the Local Authority and the Environment Agency, and construction has now started, with completion of the Kings Road section scheduled for early next year.

“Environmental considerations will of course be central to our delivery of this new infrastructure and the 433 new homes, all of which will lie above and beyond the River Loddon The future: When complete, the road will link the A329 with King Street Lane. floodplain.”

CRIME

‘Lottery win’ email is a scam warn firefighters

FIREFIGHTERS are warning people that an email telling them they have won £600,000 in a lottery is a scam.

The email contains a PDF featuring the logo of the FireFighters Charity, asking respondents to complete a form with all their details, including bank account number, before forwarding it to a Gmail address.

The charity says it does not run an emailbased lottery and warned people to steer clear of the scam.

A spokesperson said: “Please make sure everyone knows it’s nonsense and not to respond to it. If anyone has reported receiving these emails, please let us know the name and contact details of each individual by emailing marketing@firefighterscharity.org.uk.”

CRIME

Thieves clean up during raid on Woodley garage

CLEANING products were stolen from a Woodley garage last weekend.

At some point between 6pm and midnight on Friday, January 29, thieves broke into the outbuilding in Larch Drive. They forced the lock to access the cleaning products.

Thames Valley Police warn residents not to leave garages and sheds unlocked, especially if the garage has a connecting door to the house.

If you have any information which could help police call 101.

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APPEAL

Bungling thieves fail in attempt to steal digger

THIEVES attempted to steal a digger in Shinfield last week, but failed to get into the cockpit to drive it away.

Thames Valley Police said that the door was damaged in the incident, which took place sometime between the evening of Monday, February 1, and morning of Tuesday, February 2. The digger was on Shinfield Road.

If you have any information which could help police call 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

CRIME

Cash and card stolen during school run break-in

A DEBIT card and cash were stolen from a car in Sonning last week.

The break-in occurred during the school run on Wednesday, January 27 while the vehicle was parked on Sonning Lane at around 8.45am.

Someone smashed the passenger window and stole items from inside, including a driving licence.

If you have any information which could help police call 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

FUNDRAISING

Big breakfast is sunny side up for local charity

A SPECIAL breakfast event will help raise funds for a Wokingham charity.

The Big Breakfast, an annual event at the Bradbury Centre in Rose Street, will take place on Tuesday, February 16. It runs from 9.30am to 1.30pm and will raise funds for CLASP, a self-advocacy group of adults with learning disabilities, and The Link Visiting Scheme .

The charity’s members will be teaming up with volunteers from Wokingham Methodist Church to serve the full English breakfasts, which will cost £5.

Father of ‘silent killer’ victim calls for more education after gas claims yet another life

By GEMMA DAVIDSON gdavidson@wokinghampaper.co.uk THE father of a woman who died from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in Wokingham almost six years ago says more needs to be done to educate the public on the dangers of the silent killer after the death of a local man last month.

Gordon Samuel, whose daughter Katie Haines died just days after her 31st birthday in February 2010, has campaigned tirelessly with his wife Avril to raise awareness of the importance of owning and maintaining a CO alarm.

Mr Samuel spoke out following the death of Richard Hiles, 60, from Broadwater Lane in Whistley Green, from suspected CO poisoning on January 29.

Mr Samuel said: “We are raising a lot of awareness but there is still a lot of disparity between fire alarms and CO alarms.

“It’s all about raising awareness, if we had known five years ago what we know now, Katie would still be alive, she would be enjoying her life and would probably have children and maybe this poor man from last week would still be alive.”

Mrs Haines died at her home in Barkham Road on February 18 2010, two months after marrying husband Richard, who now lives in Binfield.

She would have celebrated her 37th

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Katie Haines and her father Gordon Samuel on her wedding day.

Inset: Mr Samuel featured on BBC Inside Out South on Monday Pictures: BBC

birthday on January 31.

The law changed in October requiring all landlords of private residential rental properties to install CO alarms in any room of the premises which contains a solid fuel burning combustion appliance, but Mr Samuel said this isn’t enough.

He said: “The law in England and Wales is to have alarms fitted in properties that have a solid fuel burning appliance, whereas in Scotland and Northern Ireland it is compulsory in every property if it has gas appliances or not. We won’t stop campaigning until the law is matched in England and Wales.

“There is still a lot of confusion around what CO is, where it comes from and what it can potentially do. People don’t realise that even if they don’t have any gas appliances in their home, if they live in a terrace they could still be at risk if their neighbour’s boiler malfunctions.

“For around £18 you can buy a simple alarm online, it is such a small amount of money to help keep your family and loved ones safe.”

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) confirmed that its crews had been called to three separate incidents involving suspected carbon monoxide poisoning over the last few days.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Paul Southern said: “I would like to reassure people that there are a number of steps people can take to protect themselves from carbon monoxide poisoning.

“CO is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’, as you can’t see it, smell it or taste it but its effects can be fatal. Symptoms of CO poisoning are often mistaken for common viruses and can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, tiredness and loss of consciousness.

“CO leaks are often the result of fuel burning appliances and flues that are not properly installed, maintained or ventilated.

“We strongly recommend that people fit both CO detectors and smoke alarms in their homes. We also advise people to make sure their gas/oil heating appliances are fitted and serviced regularly by a Gas Safe/OFTEC registered engineer.

“If you have an open fire or wood burning stove, it is very important to get your chimney swept regularly. As well as being a fire risk, blocked chimneys can also cause potentially deadly CO to enter your home.”

To find a Gas Safe engineer in your area, visit the Gas Safe Register at www. gassaferegister.co.uk, or to find an OFTEC engineer, visit www.oftec.org.uk. n Gordon and Avril appeared on BBC Inside Out South on Monday evening. To view the programme log on to www.bbc.co.uk/ iplayer and search for Inside Out South for February 1. To find out more about the Katie Haines Memorial Trust visit www. katiehainestrust.com

Cultivating community care

I

N TIMES of economic uncertainty it is often the caring services that seem to be cut back.

But local company Bridges Home Care is keeping abreast of the challenging budgets and their continual changes to provide growing services that are proving very popular with the community.

Bridges is based in Henley-on-Thames and serves the people of Berkshire and Oxfordshire. The business is a hands-on people based service which provides the care for the elderly and vulnerable that often busy families can’t.

Domiciliary care services in the community are growing for many different reasons. People are living longer, more women work outside the home and the professional care provided at Bridges is convenient to put in place, and it is well managed, flexible and reliable.

A bespoke care plan is designed and implemented for each client by Bridges so that the client, the family and the home carer knows exactly what is individually required. However, the plan is flexible and can be adjusted as different needs arise.

The personal care services include support for bathing, personal hygiene, dressing, meal times, convalescence, domestic chores, shopping and escort services to hospital appointments or libraries.

Bonny Harrison and Wendy James share 35 years of domiciliary care management between them and are well placed to ensure that Bridges Home Care runs smoothly and provides the practical care that their patients need.

ABOVE: Paul Ray Bridges Home Care Co-ordinator listens closely to a client

They are interested in talking to anyone at the moment who could help to grow their team and continue to supply their style of home based care in the community in such a rewarding and valuable way.

Bridges really does ‘bridge the gap’ not just for the client who needs the care but also to relieve the burden of care on family and friends. One family member said ”I know that Mum very much appreciated all their help during her final months and looked forward to their visits; this also took a great weight off my mind as to her welfare during the day while I was at work. It was nice to know that someone reliable would be checking in on her.”

15

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THE WOKINGHAM PAPER N E W S W I T H A H E A RT F O R T H E B O RO U G H

Make a noise about the silent killer OVER the past couple of weeks, we have had to report on the sad news of a man who lost his life due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

It’s dubbed the silent killer because, unlike normal gas, you can’t smell it or see it.

Nearly six years ago, the gas claimed the life of a Wokingham woman, Katie Haines. It came just weeks after she had married the love of her life.

For the family it was a devastating turn of events and, as the sixth anniversary approaches, our thoughts are with them.

But from this tragedy has come some good.

Her parents, Gordon and Avril, and her husband Richard established the Katie Haines Memorial Trust – a charity that aims to raise awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning.

It has been campaigning to help others understand the dangers of carbon monoxide and to take preventative measures to ensure they do not fall victim to the gas.

It encourages people to buy an audible alarm costing from £18 (although Lidl and Aldi occasionally have them in their special offers), ensure that burning appliances such as boilers and gas fires are checked regularly and taking an alarm while on holiday.

A lot of their advice falls down to common sense. When budgets are tight it might seem like an easy task to skimp on testing your boiler, but nothing is richer than human life.

The cost of a faulty boiler can be too high — get yours tested and buy an alarm today.

CHURCH NOTES

Steer clear of temptation I AM sure that your diary does tell you that Tuesday, February 9, is Shrove Tuesday.

I also think that the editor of this paper is probably looking for Pancake Day events to photograph.

But what of Wednesday 10? The Christian season of Lent that comprises the forty days (excluding Sundays) preceding Easter, begins on Ash Wednesday which this year is February 10 and finishes on Holy Saturday.

It was decreed by the early church to be a period of strict fasting, penance and piety; all meat, eggs, cooking fat and cheese were strictly forbidden.

During Lent there were to be no marriage ceremonies, no fun and games, no flowers, and all the statues, images and pictures in the church were covered in purple cloth.

In 1538, Henry VIII, as the new head of the church, softened the official line by allowing dairy products to be eaten (he was said to be very fond of cheese and butter!) but he kept the ban on meat eating.

Somewhat surprisingly, Lent was abolished by the Puritans in 1642, and reinstated by Charles II in 1664 – although in subsequent centuries the strict keeping of Lent began to fade, except by those in the Catholic and High Anglican churches.

What of Lent today for the majority of us? Is it just a time to give up chocolates, biscuits or going to the cinema? A time to give up any other so-called temptations? We can study the Bible to learn about the temptations of Jesus, and study his wilderness experience.

We could reflect on the importance in our spiritual lives of prayer and fasting, on self-denial and the needs of others, and on the meaning for each one of us of that part of the Lord’s Prayer: “Lord, lead us not into temptation”.

Jim Dunning on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

Your views

We love to hear from you! Send us your views on issues relatingto the borough (in 250 words or less) to The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS or email: letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk We reserve the right to edit letters

Send your thoughts to letters@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Original Elms Field owners would be ‘appalled’ at plans AS a very long term resident of Wokingham I wholeheartedly agree with Leo Hopkins comments on the proposed development of Elms Field (The Wokingham Paper, January 22).

As he noted, Elms Field was left to the people of Wokingham by the Ellisons, I believe they saw the field as a place of recreation for local residents.

I am sure they would have been appalled by the current plans. I remember my parents being totally disapproving of the building of the flats behind Elms House.

With regard to the now demolished council offices, their only distinction was that they were voted the second ugliest building in England by an architectural magazine, and were never in tune with their surroundings.

I would agree with Leo Hopkins in all his comments regarding the proposed hotel, supermarket and shops, as he says, the shops we have in town now are struggling to survive, this will make it even harder for them.

This project has received huge criticism and disapproval from many residents of Wokingham from the outset, and has been subject to numerous revamps, but I have no confidence that our council will take any notice, and will remove the last open green space in the town.

Jackie Wilson (via email)

For Elms Field ‘developers’, read ‘builders’ instead ALTHOUGH I take my hat off to Mel Horton for starting this public demo [over Elms Field]. I do believe the only way the demonstrators will win is if the councillors begin to get concerned they will get voted out. I suggest two things: 1) The alternative solution would provide a basis for a leaflet which is distributed to shoppers at Waitrose, Lidl and Tesco (probably in the week prior to the next demo).

2) Create a website with a favicon, similar to what Wokingham Town Team has.

On a separate issue I have, it is using the word “developers”, they destroy the environment and we should refer to them as “builders”, especially newspapers and politicians.

Bruce (a Wokingham resident for over 16 years), Change Architect

Nominate a hero for British Heart Foundation awards I WOULD like to invite your readers to nominate someone for a British Heart Foundation Heart Hero award.

The awards recognise the incredible efforts people

Where is the common sense over A329M ‘danger’ road?

I WAS very interested to read Phil Creighton’s article and the comments by Councillor Kaiser in this week’s paper (January 29).

What the councillor seems to have completely missed is the serious flaw in this whole project which I will outline below: Before the changes traffic flowed easily and freely along the A329M in both directions. The problem was that, at peak times, traffic leaving the M4 wishing to join the A329M would bottleneck especially on the slip roads towards Bracknell causing queues back to the M4 which were obviously dangerous.

I would agree with the councillor that the new changes have solved this problem and reduced risk on the M4 since vehicles joining from the M4 no longer have to give way to A329M traffic as a result of the slip road becoming the slow lane at the junction.

However, the changes have now created a problem that did not previously exist – Firstly, reducing the dual carriageway to a single lane over the junction was always going to cause congestion for northbound and southbound traffic on the A329M. Whoever heard of a single lane motorway?

Secondly, forcing traffic wishing to use the M4 in either direction to use the slow lane prior to the junction adds those westbound vehicles which previously did not have to mix with the London/ eastbound traffic into one queue.

At peak times, this clearly has caused bottlenecks towards the junction which are just as dangerous if not more so than the

previous problem.

Thirdly, this danger is exacerbated by the now single lane motorway being held up by traffic trying to cut into this queue with nowhere for those going straight on to avoid such hold ups.

As a result many minor accidents have occurred (quite a few unreported to the authorities) and near misses happen every day.

Gridlock is now a regular occurrence at the Woodley/ Winnersh triangle junction and surrounding roads.

The current road design is a disaster and will continue to cause severe congestion, pollution and danger as a result of transferring the real problem which is too much traffic for the junction capacity from one motorway to the other rather than actually solving it – this is the serious flaw.

make to fight heart disease. Ask yourself who has impressed you with their drive and determination to make a difference.

They might be someone who’s campaigning for better health services, a brilliant fundraiser or a heart patient who’s inspiring others by overcoming daily challenges.

Heart disease continues to devastate the lives of

Putting the road back to the way it was will reintroduce the old problem so I don’t think this is an option.

What this project really needed was an extra lane on the A329M either side of the junction so that it became a three-lane motorway for a reasonable distance with the slow lane being the joining slip road from the M4 so that the dual carriageway could be maintained across the junction and traffic could flow in every direction.

With the number of new build houses in the Wokingham unitary authority area and in adjoining areas I am astounded at the short sightedness of not designing in extra capacity throughout this junction.

Why is common sense not so common these days?

Dave Hubbard, via email

millions of people. But in every community there are individuals striving to change that, and the heart hero awards exist to celebrate their work.

If someone you know deserves an award, please nominate them online at bhf.org.uk/ heartheroes.

Simon Gillespie, Chief Executive, British Heart Foundation

GOOD ADVICE

Looking at housing for young people in difficult circumstances Wokingham CAB look at a recent issue they have come across and give an answer WE sometimes (all too often) have young people coming to us because they have nowhere to live. Some leave home voluntarily because of family issues, others have been forced to leave home.

In this article child means someone aged under 14 and young person means someone aged 14 or over but under 18. Parent means someone with parental responsibility. If you are under the age of 18 you do not pay council tax.

In most circumstances you can leave home without the consent of your parents or anyone with parental responsibility when you are 16.

A parent or person with parental responsibility could go to court to try and force you to return home.

However, it is unlikely that any court would order you to

return home if you did not want to.

If you’re under 18, the law says you aren’t allowed to hold a tenancy. However, there are ways that a landlord can work around this. For example, a landlord could grant: n A tenancy that will be held on trust for you by a third party such as an adult relative or social worker, until you turn 18 or n A joint tenancy if a joint tenant is aged 18 or over As an alternative, you could sign an agreement with a landlord for a licence, which is different from a tenancy. Holding a licence means that you have the landlord’s personal permission, rather than a legal right, to stay in the accommodation.

The local authority also has a responsibility to look after you under the Children Act if: n No-one has parental responsibility for you; or n You are lost or abandoned; or n The person who has been caring for you is

unable to continue to provide suitable care and accommodation; or n You are aged 16 or 17 and the local authority considers your welfare would be seriously threatened if it does not provide accommodation.

These rules also apply to asylum seekers. If someone doesn’t understand English, the local authority must provide help and information in their own language.

If you are given accommodation in a children’s home, the care you get must take into account your religious needs. For example, if you are Muslim, you should be offered Halal food.

If you become homeless you may need to seek specialist advice, for example, from a Citizens Advice or from Shelter. n You can get help, information and advice from your local Citizens Advice or visit www.citizensadvice. org.uk or contact Citizens Advice Wokingham at Second Floor, Waterford House, Erftstadt Court, Wokingham, RG40 2YF. Tel: 03444 111 306. email: public@wokingham-cab.org.uk

VIEWPOINTS | 17

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Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

COMMENTARY

The tax man cometh

P

ROPOSALS to introduce a new local “stealth tax” probably seemed innocuous enough when they were first discussed.

After all, who could object to being charged to park in the town in the evening or at weekends?

Or for one of our Country Parks, a rise of 240% for a four hour stay, or 55% for a season ticket?

It turns out that we do.

Rather a lot of us.

At the same time as raising the charges, the proposal seeks to raise parking weight limits from 30cwt to 3000kg (roughly double) to “reflect the bigger size of newer cars”.

So it would appear today that parking your Bentley, Range Rover or large van in any of the Borough’s carparks is against regulations. So these and other Chelsea tractors need to chug around the Borough’s clogged arteries, looking for a free place to park.

Mind you, it isn’t only “bigger newer cars” that shouldn’t be using council parking. I’m shocked to find that this rule applies to my 30-year-old car too.

This is scandalous!

Something should be done about it. I’m going to write to my... what’s that you say? Oh. Bother. Something IS being done about it!

As for the charges, you can avoid them by walking, cycling, or going by bus. Errr, better reconsider that last suggestion, it’s more expensive than the parking is.

With the ‘self-sufficiency’ mantra in mind, from the supplyside, we need to pay for the huge new car park down by Carnival Pool. Doing that from even the new parking charges is going to be “a bit of a challenge”.

Tony Johnson

THE sky provides a rich resource for photographers - the natural beauty of clouds, sunshine and dusk and dawn make for fantastic pictures. This week, we have an entry from the home side. Wokingham Paper publisher Phil Creighton snapped this beautiful dawn over Wokingham from his bathroom window. “It was such a gorgeous golden sky that I had to take a picture,” he said. Well done Phil… but we’re sure our readers can do better. We love to showcase your photos in our Picture of the Week feature. If you have a picture – landscape in format, not portrait – email it to news@wokinghampaper.co.uk. Pictures should be hi-res, landscape, 300dpi and taken by yourself, preferably within the Wokingham borough.

H

OW can it be February already? Not only that half-term starts next week! That means we are now half way through the school year and it won’t be long before my youngest leaves junior school.

I’ve been a junior school parent for nearly 13 years so it will be very strange not to wait at the gate for my whirling dervish to come flying out excitedly telling me what she has done and asking what food I’ve got.

I don’t know about you but my children are gannets and eat everything, no sooner than the fridge is full it’s empty and the bowl of fruit slowly reduces, leaving a bruised banana or a hard lemon.

My eldest, being a late teen, is full of interesting facts and she told me that if you break up the bunch of bananas they last longer and don’t bruise as easily. I tried it and it works!

NELLIE KNOWS

Nellie Williams – www.nelliepompoms.co.uk

Rugby

This weekend sees the start of the six Nations, it’s a big thing in our house. A really big thing.

Anyone who has any connection to Wales will know how much of a big thing it is when England and Wales play (Round 4, Twickenham, Saturday, March 12, at 4pm).

Big Welsh is a Valleys boy, born in Wales to Welsh parents and is very Welsh, I was born in Henley and the children were born in Reading however they all support Wales, the dog was born locally but he’s also Welsh!

I’ve embraced the Welsh influence and also support Wales, it makes it easier when my motherin-law (Granny Valley) phones. Normally she phones on a Sunday at 7pm but you can guarantee she will phone immediately after any England/Wales game.

I think she has her finger poised on the speed dial but I could be wrong! I’ve previously

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mentioned how emotional I get when anyone (not just my girls) scores in football, I can tell you it’s worse when there’s a National Anthem I am a blubbering wreck.

Food and drink

Over on the Facebook page Memories of Wokingham we’ve been talking about food, again! I’ve mentioned crispy pancakes before and I read last week that Findus were going to stop producing them.

I don’t think I have eaten them in ages so I won’t miss them but I did think I should have a meal for old time’s sake! We had a great evening out with some (Welsh) friends at The Crooked

FACEBOOK.COM/WOKINGHAMPAPER

Billet in Honey Hill last Saturday, we all had the salmon starter and then three of us had the steak which was cooked to perfection, rare for me and medium rare for everyone else.

I’m not a pudding person so I went for the cheese board which was a perfect end to a delicious meal. My eldest treated us to breakfast at Jessy’s in Denmark Street the next day where I enjoyed Eggs Benedict with salmon. With the roaring fire and the Sunday papers it was a nice way to start a Sunday.

We’ve also been to Oslars after school a number of times, little legs is gaining independence prior to moving to senior school so she has walked to meet me there and because they welcome dogs I have taken him in with me. I’ll speak for him and say it’s a really friendly independent cafe which plays 80s music so we’re all happy!

Telly

Speaking of 80s music we watched a number of programmes recently featuring the glorious days of the 80s, one thing that stood out was the hair!

And what hair! What clothing!

When I was skiing in the 80s in my brightly coloured ski gear I looked the part, nowadays it’s not quite so garish so we have been enjoying watching The Jump with Graham Bell. All I will say is ouch! I’m a confident skier but I’m not daring! I love the mountains, which reminds me I’ve got a mountain of ironing to get through.

See you next week!

@WOKYPAPER

ASKING In case you forgot, that’s the “Soviet-bloc block” that the council gave itself planning permission for last year. It’s the one with the timber cladding that will fade to grey, then rot away, because like last week’s “muddy patch” in Elms Field, maintenance costs too much.

When we can’t afford to replace it, Councillors of the day will be asking who’s idea was it anyway?

Yours! Or at least your forebears, with insufficient thought for the consequences.

And that’s the rub with many of the ideas that we introduce.

Let future generations or administrations sort things out – just like we’re having to do today.

As an example, ask any senior public service manager what they think of PFI contracts. If they’re prepared to tell you, stand well back and put the ear defenders and tin hat on. Only if you’re feeling very brave should you ask them who introduced the blasted things. You’ll be surprised by the answer.

But when it comes to balancing the books locally, the council are in a bind. Struggling to make ends meet. No, not the belt around people’s ever expanding waistlines, but the money to run the bare necessities of life.

Raising money, especially from people or places where things were “free”, is never going to be easy or popular.

All of which brings us to the main point.

A desire to ignore inflation, so that council tax can stay unchanged and local politicians can brag about the great job they’re doing.

The longer this continues, the harder it is to close the income vs. expenditure gap. Eventually, one either raises tax by an astronomic percentage, stops key services, or goes bust.

Simple. Economic. Reality.

We now know that subsidies and cutbacks are even worse than our leaders had been led to believe by their central government “friends”.

The rules on local government tax rises have been changed this year too, so instead of dithering, it is time to make a choice.

Either increase council tax by the 4% “suggested” by Whitehall, or stop providing a key service.

WBC needs to “Mind the Gap” – just like we do.

Tony Johnson is a former business manager with experience of business economics. He is currently “resting” - learning how to recognise the strengths and weaknesses of logical and political arguments.

18 | VIEWPOINTS

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John Redwood’s diary

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

OH, MR SMITH!

A round-up of blog posts from Wokingham’s MP

A wry look at life

FLIGHTS

Planes, trains and automobiles

Why spend a penny more?

I

HAVE talked to the Aviation Minister to remind him that we do not accept the replies of NATs and Heathrow, and wish to see the position restored to the pre-2014 one.

He is having a meeting [this] week when he plans to raise this matter again.

Fixing the A329M

On Tuesday, January 26, I held a meeting with the Roads Minister, Andrew Jones, after the meeting about the M25, to discuss problems with the latest Highways England scheme for the M4/A329M junction.

I explained that the Highways England scheme has reduced queues to get off the M4 at the price of creating big jams on the A329M at busy times, and causing crashes.

The decision to remove one of the two lanes from use for through traffic has cut capacity too far on the A329M, as the flows on the motorway usually exceed the flow of traffic joining the motorway by a substantial margin.

I asked him to review with Highways England the dangers and congestion caused, and to come up with a safer solution which restores capacity on the A329M.

Meeting with Roads Minister over M25

The UK government is commencing a consultation over how to deal with the lack of road capacity on the western and south western section of the M25.

I attended a meeting with the Roads Minister, Andrew Jones, and his officials in the Commons to discuss the issues and hear the plans for the consultation. They will draw up a project to resolve the lack of transport capacity in the area. Only two MPs attended, so I had plenty of opportunity to explore matters with the Minister.

The Minister’s officials confirmed that the Statutory consultees will include local MPs and principal Councils. I sought and received an assurance that Wokingham Borough will be one of the consultees, as the study is considering places beyond

T

the M25 as well as places within the M25 affected by it and related roads.

I pointed out that we are short of peak hours railway capacity as well as short of road capacity. I reminded them that the western part of the M25 has many junctions in a short distance which adds to congestion, and has to handle the ever growing traffic volumes for Heathrow.

The road takes a lot of long haul traffic seeking to get round London by the west, as well as local traffic going just one or two junctions as part of a journey that may straddle the motorway.

The Minister agreed that the study needs to consider the wider issues of the routes of the A329M, A322 and A404. I raised again the question of bridge capacity over the Thames. The Minister reminded me that they were also considering cross country links not entailing using the M25.

VOLUNTEER CORNER n Woodlands toddler group is a volunteer run group that runs a play session every Tuesday morning and offers a safe and fun environment for parents and carers of pre-school aged children to socialise and play.

The role will include setting/clearing up the hall, sharing jobs such as preparing snacks and drinks, reading stories, leading singing time, planning and preparing craft activities.

Volunteers will preferably have experience with children, but not

I would be happy to hear views on the possible solutions. I will write in with a formal submission later in the process.

Government response to my question on providing more train seats on the Great Western Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment he has made of the potential effect on seating capacity of the Great Western Main Line electrification project.

(21827) Tabled on: 11 January 2016 Answer: Claire Perry: The electrification programme will help dramatically increase seating capacity on the Great Western Main

Line, with the Intercity Express Programme providing up to 40% more seats in the morning peak (compared to the HST fleet it replaces) in to Paddington and the new AT300s increasing seating capacity on Newbury to London services.

Noise protection on M4

It is good news that the Government is now considering more noise barriers along the M4 adjacent to Earley, Emmbrook, Sindlesham and Winnersh.

This follows an extensive campaign by myself, by Wokingham Borough, and by Councillor Norman Jorgensen. It has also had cross party support from the Liberal democrats.

Our most recent interventions were Councillor Jorgensen’s attendance at the open planning enquiry and my meeting with the Minister in the Commons.

with Helena Badger essential. Must be enthusiastic and able to make a regular commitment.

The toddler groups meets every Tuesday from 9am-11.15am at Woosehill Community Centre. n The Woodley Festival aims to provide a high quality festival. In addition to being an enjoyable artistic success, the 2015 Festival saw some 6,900 visitors including 2,360 performers and 1,020 performances.

The majority of performers are

school-aged children within Berkshire, although the festival is open to all. The choir section is held at Emmbrook and Bulmershe schools. Instrumental, Piano, Vocal and Speech & Drama sections are held at the Oakwood Centre, Woodley.

Volunteers are needed to help with the events such as helping people with parking and welcoming people.

The events are taking place on Friday March 4 from 4pm-8pm at the Emmbrook School, Saturday, March 5 from 11am – 8pm at the Emmbrook School and Sunday,

March 6 from 8am – 2pm. Parking marshals are needed at Bulmershe Schools. Please contact us if you can help with any of these.

These are just three of the roles we are recruiting for, but we have more than 100 different roles on our books. To find out about these or any other roles, call us on 0118 977 0749, email wok-vol@btconnect.com or visit www.volunteercentrewokingham. org.uk

HEY’VE got a really good ruse in Melbourne. Goods are advertised at say at $3.99, with an accompanying slogan such as “Why pay $4?”

But after checking the receipts for various small purchases from various shops you find all those tiny savings have in fact disappeared. Gone. Bye. This is because Australian retailers have a process of ‘rounding up’.

Which is fine because no one’s going to worry about losing a cent which is less than a British penny but why try to entice shoppers with the tiny saving when they know it will be removed anyway?

Are we really that easily manipulable when we shop? Is there some subliminal process at work in our minds that we will be persuaded to save a penny or in this case a cent.

I wonder if I might inadvertently be giving any retailers reading this the idea to round up sums at their checkouts in Wokingham.

It’s not the only peculiarity I am experiencing in Melbourne.

I am still mystified by the road system and the right hand turn here. Basically to turn right you first have to move into the furthest left hand lane at the traffic lights. Then you wait for the lights to change and before the oncoming traffic moves you make the turn.

If however the road perpendicular to the road in which you are waiting is full you simply succeed in blocking the junction. Something Melbourne drivers don’t seem to like and really say so on their car horns.

To add to the confusion not every major crossroads has this rule.

So it’s always a bit stressful approaching a major junction for the first time. I don’t know the reason why they prefer this system.

It may avoid holding up the outside lane but it holds up traffic turning left.

It is interesting to stand at a crossroads in the Central Business District or CBD of Melbourne and see how many locals get this wrong.

Incidentally, if you think traffic in Wokingham is bad you’ve seen nothing. The other day one of the main bridges over the Yarra River was closed and the centre was brought to a standstill.

I thought I had escaped the problem by travelling by tram from Carlton in the north of the city to Albert Park in the South. But as we approached the Yarra River which dissects the city the driver announced the tram was stopping at the bridge.

Normally the trams run every 15 minutes or so but I had to wait around 40 minutes in 38ºC sunshine for a relief bus and it was humid.

Good job I had a hat.

That’s the trouble in the state of Victoria, one minute the summer weather is in the low 20s but dry, the next it is in the low 40s and there might be torrential rain.

So it is difficult to know what to wear. Best to take several layers and an umbrella. At least the meteorologists can’t round up 38ºC to 41ºC. Every degree helps when you’re out summer shopping in Melbourne.

TOM SMITH @WRYLIFEtomsmith

WELLBEING | 19

Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

Good health

You’re under doctor’s orders to read this page!

HEALTH MATTERS with Nicola Strudley

TINNITUS

Ringing in the ears? Check out these treatment options

Our membership scheme is available for only You do not need to be dentally fit to join BMS but a new patient examination is required before signing up. If treatment is needed during the 12 month contract a member discount of 15% is given.

£21 a month

What is included?

• 2 Examinations (including x-rays) • 2 Hygienist visits • Accident & Emergency Insurance • 15% member discount on treatment

Need to budget Need to bud for regular budget for regular dental visits?dent

Availability of care in the Borough

(excludes specialist and implant treatment)

Need to regular dental visits?

For more information, please contact us on 0118 978 3815, visit our website at www.beechcroftdental.com or call into Beechcroft Dental Practice, 32 Station Road, Wokingham, RG40 2AE and speak with one of our team.

H

EALTHWATCH Wokingham Borough receives various comments from residents talking about how bewildering they find navigating the care environment.

You have told us how difficult it is to find out information when searching for care either for yourself or a loved one.

The top topics we hear are the difficulty in finding information relating to care home costs or understanding the information in terms of how much they will have to pay, financial thresholds and what percentage of care costs that might be met by the local council. In addition some people have found issues with transparency of fees regarding care home costs.

We recognise how complex the care landscape is both nationally and in Wokingham Borough.

As a result we decided to undertake a desktop study of the facts and figures related to care services in Wokingham Borough.

We surveyed 212 care providers locally (care homes, domiciliary care agencies and micro providers), we interviewed council officials and looked at intelligence we received from members of the public commenting on care services.

We have produced an Information Report on the provision of various forms of care provided for Wokingham Borough residents by both Wokingham Borough Council and private providers in order to help people understand the complex system.

The report covers: a) Adults with learning difficulties who need residential care b) Residential care homes c) Residential care homes able to deal with Dementia/Alzheimer’s & nursing d) Home care provision e) Sheltered housing f) Domiciliary care agencies g) Extra Care Housing Schemes We have written the Information Report in simple language, it aims to help people who want to better understand the complex care landscape both nationally and locally.

We also provide a resource section to signpost you to useful organisations that may be able to help.

Most people come face-to-face with information about care when they or a family member is in a health crisis and in need of immediate support or help – this makes it even harder to decipher and digest the plethora of data.

The Information Report can be found on our website www.healthwatchwokingham.co.uk or call 0118 418 1418 if you would like a hard copy sent to you. n How to Contact us: Facebook @ healthwatchwokingham, Twitter @HWWokingham, call 0118 418 1418, email enquiries@ healthwatchwokingham.co.uk or walk in via Citizens Advice at 2 Waterford House, Erfstadt Court, Denmark Street, Wokingham RG40 2YF. Nicola Strudley works two days a week as the manager for Healthwatch Wokingham Borough.

Opinions expressed in this blog are her own

Need to budget for regular dental visits?

Our membership scheme is ava Our membership scheme is available You do notfor need to be dentally fit to join butaa new patienta examination onlyforBMS £21 month Our membership scheme is available only £21 month is You do not need to be dentally fit to join BMS but a new patient examination is required before signing up. If treatment is needed during the 12 month contract a member discount of 15% is given.

required before signing up. If treatment is included? needed during the 12 month contract What is a member (including discount of 15% is given.

• 2 Examinations x-rays) • • •

2 Hygienist visits Accident & Emergency Insurance 15%For member discount on treatment please more information, (excludes specialist and implant treatment)

visit our website at www.beec You do notBeechcroft need to be dentallyDental fit to join Practice, 3 BMS but a new patient examination is For more information, please contact us on2AE 0118 3815, RG40 and978 speak with one required before signing up. If treatment

visit our website at www.beechcroftdental.com call into is needed during the 12 monthor contract member discount of 15% is given.

Beechcroft Dental Practice, 32a Station Road, Wokingham, Dr Gemma Gray, Clinical Scientist (Audiology) and Professional Services Manager at Leightons and Hearing RG40 2AE andOpticians speak withCare. one of our team.

The buzz of tinnitus is annoying and can lead to hearing loss. JOHN WAKEFIELD explains

P

EOPLE suffering from ringing in their ears may be facing the early signs of hearing loss that could lead to deafness.

Tinnitus – a condition where people suffer with noises in their head or ears, which can sound like a buzzing, chirping, roaring, hissing, whistling or clicking noise – is estimated to affect more than six million people in the UK. The British Tinnitus Association says the condition makes it difficult for people to concentrate, work or sleep and that without treatment the condition could lead to deafness.

Hearing loss and tinnitus usually go hand in hand.

Many tinnitus sufferers can trace the cause back to having had exposure to loud noise such as the bang of a firearm or explosion, loud music, or close-up exposure to lawn mowers or traffic noise.

But other causes may be an ear infection, a blow to the head, exposure to high pressure while scuba diving or even blockage of the ear canal by earwax or debris.

To help raise awareness during Tinnitus Week, which starts on Monday, Leightons Opticians and

“Sound enrichment can also be achieved by using maskers worn on your ears like hearing devices.

These prove very effective by Hearing Care are offering free giving your ears and brain an hearing assessments and can provide expert advice on therapies external sound to concentrate on so that it can ignore the internal to help deal with Tinnitus as there sounds of tinnitus. is no actual cure.

“In more extreme cases of Dr Gemma Gray, Clinical tinnitus, Tinnitus Retraining Scientist (Audiology) and Therapy may be essential.

Professional Services Manager This is a combination of sound at Leightons Opticians and enrichment therapy, along with Hearing Care in Wokingham, a talking therapy like counselling said: “It’s true, there is no cure or cognitive behavioral therapy for tinnitus, but we effectively (CBT).” treat tinnitus sufferers every day “Frustration, depression, fear as there are plenty of ways to and anxiety are as much a part of manage it. tinnitus as the auditory noise and “Sound enrichment therapy these feelings are valid responses. is a simple practice which can These therapies like CBT teaches help. Because tinnitus is most coping strategies thatis available for membership scheme a month noticeable in quiet environments, Oursufferers prevent these feelings become you may have difficulty falling overbearing and allow for a better asleep when bombarded by the What is included?

You quality do not need to be dentally fit to join of life.” unremitting ringing.

• 2 Examinations (including x-rays) BMS but a new patient examination is Leightons Opticians and “This is one of the most Hearing Care is offering a free • 2 Hygienist visits frustrating aspects of the required before signing up. If treatment hearing assessment in all of its 34 condition, and can lead to fatigue • Accident & Emergency Insurance is needed during the 12 month contract stores including its Peach Street and anxiety. But by playing • 15% member discount on treatment a member 15%isisthe given. branch.discount If hearingofloss cause, relaxing and repetitive audio, (excludes specialist and implant treatment) hearing devices can also be tried such as the sound of breaking for free. waves or rainstorms, it can make For further information about it easier to deal with tinnitus. Also, to book a hearingplease test leaving the radio on as low-level Fortinnitus, moreorinformation, contact us on 0118 978 3815, with an expert audiologist log on background noise can help mask visit our website at www.beechcroftdental.com or call into symptoms. to www.leightons.co.uk.

Need to budget for regular dental visits?

For more information, please contact us on

only3815 £21 , 0118 978

visit our website at

www.beechcroftdental.com or call into Beechcroft Dental Practice, 32 Station Road, Wokingham RG40 2AE and speak with one of our team.

Beechcroft Dental Practice, 32 Station Road, Wokingham,

20 | HERITAGE

Friday, August 21, 2015 TheWokinghamPaPer

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WokinghamRemembers

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

HERITAGE | 17

Inassociation associationwith with In

Exploring our our heritage heritage with with wokinghamremembers.com wokinghamremembers.com Exploring

HISTORY REVIEW

AThe talepast of the ‘old has forest’ and the which shaped ourBroomdashers present...

Local writer and historian Roger Long has This week MikE ChuRChER reviews written 18 booksRemembers about haunted houses, the Wokingham articles ancient pubs and various nefarious of the past four months and discusses activities in the south eastcontributed of England and some of the factors which his contributions in a dozen international to the making of Wokingham and its magazines have spread across more than 60 environment. countries.

His latest offering, Broomdashers major impact they had on the town and VER the past months the weforest have already made a start with the takes us on a journey into which Wokingham Remembers pagethe has old road system by mapping the course of been providing an early picture surrounded Wokingham in the middle of the 19thout century. the old Forest Road. of how a small market town and a MIKE CHURCHER reviews theofbook While the building the M4 had a few villages on the edge of a (pictured forest is today above)

O T

ranked as one of the country’s leading HERE is plenty of material available communities. to writereligion, about life in our local Education, industry, transport, towns and villages; Reading social structures, nationalthe politics and Mercury gave snapshots local government areweekly all important of Wokingham and the writers such as Mary pieces in building great Wokingham Mitford provided into the jigsaw. Here nowan is insight a summary of our machinations during theon contributionsoftolocal datevillages and a few ideas mid the 1800s. next round of articles.

This part of Victorian Berkshire Education, Education, was generally rural in nature with Education the additions of some industry and Today’s Wokingham is an renowned as commerce, but there was additional one of the country’s centres dimension often unheard of; of theexcellence people forthe education; thisheathland is partly due to strong of woods and which school performance motivated formed large tracts ofand thethe royal forest. parents who and live in one ofcommentator the most The traveller political highly educated communities in the UK. William Cobbett in 1822 described the If we look into the history of area: Wokingham’s we can see “On leaving schools Oakingham (Wokingham) how education woven itsisDNA. for London, youisget uponinto what called Prior to the Great War, Windsor Forest; that is Wokingham to say, upon as was surrounded by manor houses aand bleak, as barren, and as villainous heath members of the landed gentry as ever man set his eyes on.” who wanted be close theon levers of power; In his to journal he to went to describe i.e. the royal households of Windsor. the destruction of three quarters of the Infarmhouses turn these upper echelons local by way of enclosure possessed a serious sense of duty of the land and at a time when Britain and just a responsibility to ensure their was recovering from the end of the communityWars. received at by least a basic Napoleonic Even 1859 The Times education. Wokingham also haddownbeat a newspaper provided a similarly powerful professional class, a strong description of the area when reporting church community (includingCollege the nonon the opening of Wellington in conformists) and together they shared Crowthorne: a strong importance of “It is a belief matterinofthe great, though useless teaching. regret, that the governors ever accepted The result was with the skills, the such an offer at all and were led to erect motivation and the finance available, a national memorial on ground so utterly there developed a culture of education bleak and barren.” which still holds strong to this day.

As if to punctuate the heavy Wokingham atmosphere of the transport area, the Broadmoor Transport is probably Criminal Lunatic Asylum the wassingle opened in most important factor Wokingham’s Crowthorne in 1863.

AllinSaints Church in development, in both its rail and roadnight Wokingham rang a curfew bell each systems. to guide travellers towards safety should Future articles will look at the they become lost during their journey introduction of the railways through the ancient forest. and the

major influence on the introduction of the Who orbusinesses what was out in the high tech which nowforest surround which required to seek refuge Wokingham, it istravellers the A329M which from? there had been in 1975Admittedly, cut off the Forest Road andone its or two highwaymen roaming around the natural connections between Emmbrook forest and Wishmoor Cross Bracknell and the villages of Hurst andinBinfield.

The Forest didhate have a resident set gallows love and relationship withofour rail on publically hang the bodies of andwhich roadsto continue to this day! the forest criminals,military but they weren’t all Wokingham’s like that were they? heritage Not according to Roger Long. His AsBroomdashers 2015 is the bi-centenary of the book tells a story of the Battle of Waterloo, there have been a real forest dwellers; gypsy families with number oflanguage articles commemorating this their own and an assortment world changing event. of sailors collected from the ships of The area alwayssoldiers been noted Trafalgar or has wounded fromfor the its contribution to the nation’s military Napoleonic Wars. Roger does not just capability, with Arborfield’s provide a sequence of facts REME, and stories RFA and Remount connections and the about 19th century life in the Forest; Sandhurst Wellington Colleges he providesand a narrative in the form all of a situated very nearby. historical novel.

Even the Duke of Wellington took to The central character is the hard living in Stratfield Saye, which today is drinking, not so hard working, but only 30 minutes away from Wokingham’s highly skilled carpenter George Long and town centre. the period commences from 1856 and Wokingham’s continues each year until George’s violent death in 1876. It would be a historical benefactor culture novel, the fact that it is awas Thebut areafor around Wokingham true story and Long surrounded

by George many remarkable is Roger’s direct ancestor. individuals and they were instrumental in Roger brings George Long infrastructure building the much needed back life with a mix whichtounderpinned the establishment of of earthycommunity. tales and even a strong earthier language as the story of the We will later beand telling the author himself says:contributions to Walter family and their “The conversations in the building of Wokingham but in April the areissue, ad-hoc, firstbook weekly webut toldI the story of the know much their lovedcharacters, Arthur Hill,how the 6th Marquess they would speak and what they of Downshire. would probably at the time”.

Although onesay of Britain’s wealthiest landowners, Arthur Hillare doubled Some of the stories from as the chief of the and was a families wholocal stillFire live Brigade in the area major financial contributor to this and Roger has taken great care to part of Wokingham’s public services. protect their sensitivities by changing articles theLater names whenwill the illustrate occasion the arises demise of these great manors and is their and for the family historian there social andcharacters the rise of aincumbent list of names of system the actual

Wokingham Railway Station viewed from Wellington Road looking towards St Pauls Church.

historians, Sarah Huxford, also took us on a journey to the old battlefields in search of their graves. This story Before we believe too much in the idea reflects only a microcosm of the losses that Wokingham’s development was a around the county of Berkshire, but solidly sedate experience, May’s article affirms the importance of the wars in the told the story of the rioting in the town Built for the ‘practically heathen people’ - St Sebastian’s Church in Without development ofWokingham our local character. centre during the time of theBelow, 1857 General and, inset, the Broomdashers.

‘Broomdashers’ author Roger Long.

Election.

Wokingham and in Such the back of the book.

Roger interweaves these events were a common sight in the Royal Forest into the contextual snippets with other theRoger town on andoccasions this shortbreaks and bloody battle Looking at today’s community, it is Romany language of the forest and to local gems; 1864 is also the year between the Whigs and the Tories also difficult to visualise just how rural the help us translate the and conversations, when the building of St Sebastian’s highlighted the Bush Rose hotels in area once was and in part explains the he provides dictionary of terms of after Church in Wokingham Without Market Placeaas the headquarters these sometimes fragile relationship between two feralchapter. groups. Collecting the words the last wasold completed.

The land for few the the and new Wokingham; The themselves story was also able to reflect has been no mean feat church hadUK been provided by such areas in the have witnessed upon the national scenea and the and he kept diary ofcorrupt them Captain Sawyer who stated one in the extraordinary growth and change nature of general overelections the yearsbefore and onthe many shouldofbeitsbuilt ‘for the benefit of the profile population. introduction ofoccasions the private ballot.to make needed practically peoplehistory with no Althoughheathen Wokingham’s Future articles upwill the include spellingfurther himself. attempt at been cleanliness or change has always intertwined with of tales of anarchy and in of this old Atrevelry the start each clothes’. the surrounding villages by providing market town. year the book navigates So who were Broomdashers? a market place forthe agricultural and us at through They were aproduce, relatively small group commercial it was also a Forest Wokingham Warthe period by providing a short of forest who did lived offmean a Town.

Thedwellers term ‘forest’ not There are watershed moments in of the national the land developed suchof laws laid of and trees, but a system history which summary mark the moment of greatas cluster well as and localthe history, weof skills by in broom that they of down royaltymaking for the protection change in a society Great so War in such 1859 Wellington College werehunting collected on the Crowthorne their grounds.

1914-1918 find is one time. was opened and the is shared by railway and distributed around the These run onerous rules restricted local Therefore a number ofyear centenaries from partstoofthe theUSA. land between 2014 andpublication 2018 will of the Origin people Charles Darwin’s country andusing evenlarge exported for sustenance andain partlife ledastoyou thewill commemorate greatwhilst lossesAlbert, of warthe of the Species. the In 1864 Forest living was hard rise highwaymen and general which the people Wokingham Princescarred of Wales was beingofborn on one findofinlocal the details of the book and as lawlessness. result, subsequent for of the 20th century.House, on sidethe of rest the Forest in Frogmore employmentAs inathe areathe began to rise, so Act marginally of 1723 came down heavily on followed the had story theMay’s otheredition a ‘criminal lunatic’ escaped Black the only profitable production these ‘Wokingham Blacks’ andby resulted in of twoBroadmoor; brothers from from theLangborough 15th in just seven of broom making had waned the turn either or execution.

Road years.in Wokingham town. One of our of thetheir 20thtransportation century. its replacement: local government.

Wokingham’s wild side

The story was told in June, and also commemorated the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, signed at nearby Runnymede in 1215.

Shining a light on Wokingham’s ‘Dark Ages’

To bring us up to date the August articles are focused on the kids who are now entering into their summer holidays.

What better way to use this month’s editions than to tell the stories of the Romans, the Celts and the Saxons influence on the area before Wokingham was even a twinkle in old Wocca’s eye?

David Nash Ford provided a set of articles and puzzles which makes history fun for the young and no doubt will also catch the interest of the parents who will be looking over their child’s shoulder.

Here’s to the next round of articles!

Thanks go out to our contributors: Steve Bacon, Jim Bell, David Nash Ford, Sarah Huxford, Roger Long, Trevor Ottlewski and Peter Shilham for all their continuing contributions.

Anyway enough of this mooee – the All this work is provided by our time arrives tofree tell you whereand to find local historians of charge thisbeunique of forest can found interpretation on the front page of thelife written by one of its favourite Wokingham Remembers websitesons: Broomdashers can be purchased at www.wokinghamremembers.com Bookends in Peach Street Wokingham for Thanks also to Mark Ashwell at TradeMark forsum supporting paper’s the miserly of just 10the pounds if you commitment to this project. can Jin the Pooker.

Windows doors and conservatories that last a lifetime and beyond www.trademarkwindows.co.uk

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Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

SCHOOLS | 21

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Press pack

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Under 20? Here’s the page that you can write!

FUNDRAISING

Ascot students go for gold with paralympian Liz

By JOHN WAKEFIELD news@wokinghampaper.co.uk FUNDRAISING students from an Ascot school celebrated their efforts with a visit from a top athlete.

Paralympic swimmer Liz Johnson came to LVS Ascot to accept a donation to Dreamflight, a charity that helps send seriously ill children on the holiday of a lifetime. The pupils held a week of events in December, netting £2,200 for the charity.

The school’s Whitbread House raised the impressive sum through a series of initiatives, such as a raffle, to win a portrait painted by Head of House Mrs Robinson, a staff against students rowing challenge, live concerts at lunchtimes and more.

Ms Johnson, who has cerebral palsy, said: “LVS Ascot’s fundraising was a mammoth effort and their kindness means another seriously ill child will be able to enjoy a once in a lifetime holiday to Florida that they will remember forever.”

The school said it wants to introduce positive role models to inspire pupils and Ms Johnson was the perfect visitor having shown great determination to overcome disability and win 100m breaststroke medals at three consecutive Paralympic Games, including Gold in Beijing 2008 and Bronze at London 2012.

Students were keen to pick up training tips from Liz, and she held a question and answer session with the LVS Ascot senior swimming squad, many of whom had also won medals in the London Olympic swimming pool at the Independent Schools Asssociation Finals last year.

As part of her visit, Ms Johnson visited a Year 5 swiming lesson in the school’s indoor pool, where she offered some tips to boost their swimming skills.

Ms Johnson added: “Having an indoor pool on site is a huge benefit for a school.

Swimming is an important life skill and teaches confidence and fitness. To be able to make it so readily available to children from Junior School up to Sixth Form is a real bonus”.

LVS Ascot Principal Christine Cunniffe was delighted to welcome their special guest.

She said: “Charity fundraising is something we actively encourage at LVS Ascot, and we are pleased to be responsible for sending another Dreamflight child on a special holiday.

“Liz Johnson is a truly remarkable sportswoman whose contact with students today has inspired them and reinforced the school’s ethos to aim high, be passionate about what you want to achieve and work as hard as possible to get there.”

DOLPHIN SCHOOL

Paralympic Gold medallist Liz Johnson receives LVS Ascot’s fundraising cheque on behalf of Dreamflight. Below left, Liz shows of her medal haul to some of LVS Ascot’s swimming team and, bottom right, coaching team members in the school’s pool.

A treat for bookworms during storytelling week TO CELEBRATE National Storytelling Week, Dolphin School teachers shared some of their favourite books.

And to make the event even more special, they told their tales to different classes.

As part of the week, headteacher Tom Lewis visited Year Two pupils and read The Paper Dolls by Julia Donaldson and Madeline in London by Ludwig Bemelmans.

Mr Lewis said: “Reading encourages children to develop vivid imaginations and memories that will be with them forever.”

Above and right: Pupils from Year Two were captivated when headteacher Tom Lewis read from his favourite books.

SCIENCE

Spaceman Tim sows the seeds of imagination PUPILS at a Shinfield school are looking forward to some space age lessons, thanks to a British astronaut.

British ESA astronaut Tim Peake is currently on board the International Space Station and will be returning in March with 2kg of rocket seeds which have spent several months in microgravity.

Children from Crosfields School will be one of 10,000 schools across the country selected to grow the seeds which will be sent out by Rocket Science, an educational project launched by the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and the UK Space Agency.

Each packet contains 100 seeds. The pupils will grow them alongside seeds that have not been to space and measure the differences over seven weeks. The children will not know which seed packet

contains which seeds until all results have been collected by the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and analysed by professional biostatisticians.

The out-of-this-world, nationwide science experiment aims to get children to think more about how we could preserve human life on another planet in the future, what astronauts need to survive long-term missions in space and the difficulties surrounding growing fresh food in challenging climates.

The school’s headteacher, Craig Watson, says: “We are very excited to be taking part in Rocket Science. This experiment is a fantastic way of teaching our pupils to think more scientifically and share their findings with the whole school community.”

You can follow the project on Twitter: @RHSSchools #RocketScience

22 | SUSTAINABILITY

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The good life

How Wokingham is going Green with Vivienne Johnson

ENVIRONMENT

Campaigners lock horns with council over Elms Field trees

A

S PLANNING inspectors consider the blueprint for regenerating and revamping a Wokingham town centre park, campaigners are considering how they can protect some much loved trees.

Two groups are fighting to preserve a number of trees and hedges that could be lost as part of the Elms Field Development project.

Members of Wokingham District Veteran Tree Association (WDVTA) and Wokingham Tree Warden Network (WTWN) are angry about plans to fell two mature oak trees, a London Plane and a row of lime trees bordering Denmark Street, all of which are recorded in the veteran tree survey of Wokingham district.

The plans show that an existing English elm hedge along the Wellington Road edge of Elms Field will be taken out and replaced with a new planting of wych elm.

In their response to the planning application, WDVTA and WTWN said: “The hedge is still healthy and has not fallen prey to Dutch elm disease. We are therefore claiming that despite having bramble and other species mixed in with it, the hedge is a major historically important source of English elm stock and its associated biodiversity within the borough.

“Of the over 7,000 trees recorded in our [veteran tree] survey, we have no elm trees of any variety. However of the surviving elm hedges we know about in the borough this is the most important.

“We strongly request that at least some part of this hedge is retained, improved with the removal of the brambles, definitely not replaced and potentially made a feature for the new area.”

The consultation period is now over and planners are considering the responses they have received, which have included representations from local residents.

However, the team behind the regeneration project say they have taken great pains to ensure the new Elms Field will be as green as possible, include 99 new trees and would be an asset to the town.

Councillor Philip Mirfin, Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for regeneration and communities, said: “In designing the park, we’ve worked closely with a range of people including landscape designers, arboriculturalists, local interest groups and key stakeholders, and those who organise events on Elms Field.

“We believe the designs take into account their ideas as well as public feedback to create a fantastic new park which will be

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

IN THE GARDEN

National Garden Gift Vouchers

Karma Camellia

T

An artist’s impression of how the new Elms Field could look, complete with tree. Below and below left, some of the existing trees in the field.

HERE’S nothing that screams spring is coming more than the stunning perfection of a brilliant red camellia in full bloom. Warm and vibrant, red is also energising and stimulating — a positive colour that awakens our life force after the dormancy of winter.

Highly valued for their stunning floral displays and fresh, glossy, evergreen foliage, there are dozens of varieties of camellias to choose from in shades of red, pink, white and cream — and they are currently Plant of the Moment in garden centres around the UK. Camellia flowers vary in size and shape and like azaleas and rhododendrons they are ericaceous plants which means they need to grow in acid or lime-free soil to ensure they stay healthy.

Grown in the right soil and position camellias usually flower reliably with little care and attention, growing larger over time to develop into impressive flowering shrubs.

Most camellias rarely need pruning, but if they outgrow their position individual shoots can be shortened, and plants can even regrow well if cut back hard into old wood.

Depending on the weather, February is a time to turn your attention back to the outdoors and venture out to see how prepared you are for the start of spring. Here are some expert tips of what to put on your February ‘to do’ list.

The essential spring job is digging and preparing, just as long as the ground isn’t waterlogged or frozen.

Digging and forking the soil allows you to loosen it, remove weeds and add compost or manure, which will improve soil structure and create a moisture and food reserve for plants.

There’s nothing better than digging and breathing in the smell of the soil as you turn it over, knowing that your efforts will be rewarded with some great tasting veg or fabulous flowers.

National Trust

This month there are signs of the approaching spring, with bulbs appearing and wildlife waking up as light levels and temperatures increase.

There’s plenty to do indoors this month to prepare for the season ahead. Outdoors, as the garden comes to life again, it’s time to prune shrubs and climbers, such as Wisteria as well as evergreen hedges.

a real asset for the town.

“A detailed tree survey ensured we knew as much as possible about species, life span, grading and necessary root protection areas for each tree.

This information was used in our arboricultural statement, submitted as part of the planning application.

“Inevitably some trees would have to be removed. However, the redesign of the scheme and reduction in scale of development proposed would allow us to keep many of the best existing mature trees across the site such as those by Virgin Active, the large elm in the play area, the willow on Wellington Road and many others. The majority lost are of poor quality, have limited life span, and biodiversity.

“Some larger trees, such as the London Plane and Oak trees, on the south eastern part of the site would be lost but we’ve identified prominent locations within the park for their replacement with semi-mature trees.

“Recognising this loss, we would plant 99 new trees, concentrating on indigenous species, ones offering all year round interest, and species to improve biodiversity and better support wildlife.

“Rather than planting sapling trees we would plant large semi-mature trees, the circumference of which would be around 20cm upward, offering immediate visual and ecological benefits.

“We also looked in detail at whether some of the existing trees could be moved to new locations.

“Due to a variety of technical issues this isn’t always going to be possible. However in one instance, the Pride of India Tree would be relocated close to the play area. In addition we would also plant shrubs, hedging and flowers.

“We’ve worked closely with our partners to identify other elements which can be retained and improved, such as the existing historic English Elm hedgerow to the south of the site along Wellington Road.

“We plan to retain as much of this hedge as possible and improve it by carrying out necessary maintenance works such as clearing out of brambles and planting additional Elm hedging stock to supplement and extend it.” n For more on the Wokingham District Veteran Tree Association, visit www.wdvta.org.uk

RHS

Create leaf piles in quiet corners of the garden border or leave a swathe of grass uncut; these offer mini-beasts places to spend the winter and provide ground feeding birds somewhere to forage.

To help birds with springtime nesting, put out the fur from pet grooming so that birds can use the fur and line their nests (February and March and onwards). The RSPB has plenty of further information on how to help birds through the winter.

RSPB

Any Grow Your Own gardener should be thinking about the sowing season to come and soil preparation.

As long as the ground isn’t frozen, the key job for this month is to mark out and prepare seedbeds and then cover them with clear polythene, cloches or fleece to warm up the soil before sowing seeds where you want them in the weeks and months ahead. n National Garden Gift Vouchers can be bought and redeemed at over 2,000 outlets in the UK, with more than 90,000 garden plants and products on offer. Visit www.thevouchergarden. co.uk to see the outlets that sell and accept them. You can become a fan and buy vouchers on facebook www.facebook.com/ GardenGiftVouchers or follow on twitter @GardenGiftVouch or via the blog at www.vouchergardenblog.com

Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

Leisure

LEISURE | 23

To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Your guide to what’s happening around Wokingham

MUSIC

Kiki to Dee-light audiences for Wokingham’s month of culture

A

SINGER who has performed worldwide is getting ready to spearhead Wokingham’s month of culture.

Kiki Dee, who is famous for singing the duet Don’t Go Breaking My Heart with Elton John in 1974, is coming to a special gig at the Wokingham Music Club.

She will be making the guest appearance on Friday, May 13, with guitarist and performing partner Carmelo Luggeri. The event is to be in the style of An Audience With… and will give guests the opportunity to learn more about her life and career.

It’s one of two events the Music Club will be hosting in May to mark the borough’s Month of Culture: also appearing will be country singer Hank Wangford.

Stan Hetherington, who organises the club which meets in Emmbrook, said: “May is Wokingham’s Month of Culture so we will be having two music nights.

“First up is the world famous singer Kiki Dee. Kiki plays these days with a magnificent guitarist Carmelo Luggeri. Look him up on Google and see the long list of people he has played with. “[There will be] lots of opportunity to ask questions of Kiki and Carmelo about their careers in music.

“Also playing for us in May will be The Father of British Country Music Hank Wangford. I am particular pleased about this as I have been a fan for Hank’s for many a long year.”

Kiki and Hank are not the only big names to be coming to the Music Club this year. Richard Digance, who had regular specials on ITV in the 1980s and 90s, will be visiting on Friday, October 21.

It’s a busy year for the club, which is going from strength to strength. Earlier this week it hosted the first of what is hoped to be a regular folk night run in conjunction with Artree Live. On Friday, February 19, Hoopy Frood will be appearing - they also appeared at last year’s Wokingham Festival.

The Jigantics will bring a fusion of blues, rock, folk and Americana to the club on Friday, March 18.

Also returning after appearing at The Wokingham Festival last year will be The Fliks, a female-fronted group performing hits from the 60s.

The Acoustic Strawbs will be performing on Friday, September 16, and The Faces Experience will appear on Friday, November 18.

The club meets at Emmbrook Sports & Social in Lowther Road, Emmbrook. n For more visit www.wokinghammusicclub.co.uk

PANTO

Join Alice down the rabbit hole in Swallowfield PANTO season is still in full swing down in Swallowfield as The Russell Players take to the stage with a story not often seen in pantomime form, writes Gemma Davidson.

Alice The Panto, by Archie Wilson, tells the abridged version of Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale of the young girl who tumbles down a rabbit hole into a fantasy world filled with talking cats, playing cards and crazy tea parties.

Featuring all the mayhem and wonder of the original, Alice The Panto includes a few extra characters and a lot more laughs.

Amelia Cooke, who plays Alice, chats with the audience like she is an old pro and commands the stage with a confidence well beyond her years.

Deni Smale plays a truly wicked Queen of Hearts with enough venom in her voice to strike fear into even the most reluctant of panto-goers, and Philip Rothbart is excellent as her downtrodden King.

Much of the comedy is brought by the hapless Fairy Godmother (yes, Alice has a fairy godmother), played by Trish Harris, who spends most of the show in a confused state about which pantomime she is actually in! Accidentally summoning Robin Hood and an oversized pumpkin, the glamorous and glittery godmother adds plenty of silliness to the proceedings.

Featuring plenty of audience interaction, including a cheeky distribution of sweets to the kids, the show manages to keep everyone involved with all the usual ‘He’s behind you!’ and ‘Oh no he isn’t’ that you’d expect.

While aimed predominantly at the younger audience members, Alice The Panto still manages to raise plenty of laughs from the adults, and is energetic, colourful and crazy enough to keep everyone entertained.

Alice the Panto runs at Swallowfield Parish Hall, in Swallowfield Street, until Saturday (6). Tickets are £9 for adults, £5 for children under 16. For more information visit www.russellplayers.co.uk or call the Box Office on 07710 500491.

Make it a birthday to remember Celebrate your child’s birthday in style with a special Bees party!

Three great packages to make a special day – and all the action of a great ice hockey game!

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24 | LEISURE

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What’s on Friday, February 5 LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Shared aloud reading group. 10.30am.

Details: 0118 931 2150.

READING – Concert Hall, Blagrave Street RG1 1QH. Reading Phoenix Choir: Fauré’s Requiem. 7.30pm.

Tickets £9.50-£19.50, under 16s £6. Details: 07783 222993.

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players present Alice: The Panto.

7.30pm. £9, under 16s £5.

Details: 07710 500491.

WOKINGHAM – All Saints Church, Wiltshire Road.

Wokingham Concerts presents a night of folk music with Philip Henry and Hannah Martin. 7.30pm.

Details: 0118 979 2797.

WOKINGHAM – 30 Rose Street RG40 1XU. John Redwood MP constituency surgery by appointment.

Details: 020 7219 4205.

WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Crochet Group with Gaynor White from Barkham Hookers. All abilities welcome. 9.30am-11.30am. £4. Cribbage and card games club. 10.30am. Local history surgery: drop-in for advice. 10am-noon. Details: 0118 978 1368.

WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. Arts Explorers: discover art all around you. For teens and children aged 5 and over.

4pm-4.45pm. Details: 0118 969 0304.

Saturday, February 6 EARLEY – St Peter’s Church Hall, Church Road. Meet your neighbours friendship lunch. Noon-3pm. Free,

bring food to share. Details: enquiries.cic@outlook.com.

EARLEY – Earley St Peter Church, Church Road RG6 1EY. Chiltern Brass Quintet in concert in aid of Brass For Africa and church funds.

7.30pm. £8, £5 concessions, £2 child. Details: 07905 087478.

EARLEY – Earley Radstock Social Club, Radstock Lane RG6 5UL. Quiz night. 8pm.

Details: 0118 931 3965.

MAIDEN ERLEGH – Library, off Silverdale Road RG6 7HS. Children’s Writing Group for ages 9-12. 2pm-2.45pm.

Details: 0118 966 6630.

READING – All Saints Hall, Downshire Square. Ramp Up The Red in aid of British Heart Foundation: table top sale, tombola and raffle.

1.30pm-3.30pm. Details: 0118 958 4131.

READING – The Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road RG1 5AQ. Reading Symphony Orchestra winter concert: Glinka, Beethoven and Shostakovich. 7.30pm. £15, £13 concessions, £5 students and under 16s.

Details: 0118 986 0707.

READING – Concert Hall, Blagrave Street RGH1 1QH. Faure Requiem performed

by Reading Phoenix Choir. £9.50-£19.50. Under 16s £6. Details: 07783 222993.

SPENCERS WOOD – Village Hall. Chapel Lane pre-school quiz night. £10, includes meal. Bring own drinks. £10.

Details: 07946 378320.

SWALLOWFIELD – Parish Hall, Swallowfield Street RG7 1QX. Russell Players present Alice: The Panto.

2pm, 7.30pm. £9, under 16s £5. Details: 07710 500491.

WARGRAVE – Library, Woodclyffe Hostel, Church Street RG10 8EP. Saturday storytime for ages 3-5.

10.30am-11am. Details: 0118 940 4656.

The best guide for local, community events across Wokingham borough WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Teen writing group: Read Out Loud. For ages 11-18.

10.30am-noon. Kniting classes for beginners with Rachel Freeguard: how to read patterns. 10am-noon. £5. Details: 0118 978 1368.

WOKINGHAM – St Paul’s Church parish rooms, Reading Road RG41 1EH. Quiz night with fish/chicken and chips supper. Details: 0118 979 2122.

WOKINGHAM – Kingdom Hall, Station Road. Wokingham In Need quiz night. Teams of up to 8. 7.30pm. Details: 0118 375 8418.

WOODLEY – Town Centre.

Market. 9am-4pm. Details: 0118 921 6920 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk.

Monday, February 8 FINCHAMPSTEAD – St James Church Centre. Fruitfulness On the Frontline: exploring faith in the every day.

7.45pm. Details: 0118 973 0133.

MAIDEN ERLEGH – Library, off Silverdale Road RG6 7HS. Colouring For Adults.

2.15pm-3pm. Details: 0118 966 6630.

SPENCERS WOOD – Library, Basingstoke Road RG7 1AJ. Storytime for ages 3-5. 4pm.

Details: 0118 988 4771.

WARGRAVE – Library, Woodclyffe Hostel, Church Street RG10 8EP.Storytime for ages 3-5. 4pm. Details: 0118 940 4656.

WOKINGHAM – Szechuan Inn. Wokingham Conservatives celebrate Chinese New Year. Three-course dinner and fortune cookie. £30.50.

Details: WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Knit, Stitch and Natter.

2pm-3pm. Details: 0118 978 1368.

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3LA. Network Fellowship group: Fair trade, a talk by Jill Draper. 2pm.

Details: www.christ-churchwoodley.org.uk or 0118 926 8143.

SHROVE TUESDAY February 9 EARLEY – Palmer Building, University of Reading Whiteknights Campus RG6 2AH. Reading Film Theatre presents: Taxi Tehran (12a).

8pm. £5 members, £8 nonmembers, £7 concessions.

Membership £20. Details: 0118 378 7151 or readingfilmtheatre.co.uk.

LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Knit and Natter. 4pm-5pm. Details: 0118 931 2150.

SHINFIELD – School Green.

Pancake races followed by refreshments in parish hall.

11.15am.

SHINFIELD – John Heggadon Room, Shinfield Parish Hall, School Green RG2 9EH. Shinfield and District Local History Society meeting.

7.45pm. Details: 0118 988 3580.

TWYFORD – Library, Polehampton Close RG10 9RP. Twyford Reading Group book discussion.

2.30pm-3.30pm. Details: 0118 934 0800.

WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Children’s origami club. 4pm4.45pm. Rhymetime for Babies. 10.30am-11am.

Rhymetime for toddlers.

11am-11.30am. Storytime: rhymes and stories for ages 3-5. 2pm-2.30pm. National Careers Service: Advice sessions to help you with career planning, CVs and interviews. 9.40am-3.40pm.

UK Online: Help and support with computers and the internet for beginners.

2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 978 1368.

WOKINGHAM - Norreys Church,, Norreys Avenue RG40 1UU. Norreys Church 50+ Group: Tony King will remind us that “Things aren’t

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

Holding a community event? Send your listings to events@wokinghampaper.co.uk

What’s on event submission form Holding a community event? Running a fun day? Organising a concert? Planning a friendship group? Get it listed in our what’s on guide by sending information to us. Use this form or email events@wokinghampaper.co.uk. Please note this service is for community

Name Address

groups, charities and not-for-profit activities. We cannot guarantee inclusion.

Date of event: Venue of event:

Postcode

What will happen:

Email

Time of event:

Send your forms to: What’s On, The Wokingham Paper, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS

Contact number for readers: what they used to be” in a fascinating, illustrated talk about times past. All over 50s welcome. Refreshments provided from 2.00 pm.

Details: 0118 961 9821 WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. Crochet Group with Gaynor White from Barkham Hookers. All abilities welcome. Noon2pm. £4. Rhymetime for under fives. 10.30am. Crafts and Laughs. 2pm-4pm.

Details: 0118 969 0304.

Wednesday, February 10 WARGRAVE – Library, Woodclyffe Hostel, Church Street RG10 8EP. Coffee morning. 10am-noon. Knit Wits: knit or crochet club.

2pm-4pm. Details: 0118 940 4656.

WINNERSH – Library, The Forest School, Robin Hood Lane RG41 5ND. Colouring For Adults. 11.45am1.15pm. Details: 0118 979 7519.

WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. Shared aloud reading group. 10.30am.

National Careers Service.

Advice for your CV and career planning. 10am-5pm.

Details: 0118 969 0304.

Thursday, February 11 EARLEY – Palmer Building, University of Reading Whiteknights Campus RG6 2AH. Reading Film Theatre presents: Grandma (15).

8pm. £5 members, £8 non-

members, £7 concessions.

Membership £20. Details: 0118 378 7151 or readingfilmtheatre.co.uk.

LOWER EARLEY – Trinity Church, Chalfont Close RG6 5HZ. Chalfont social afternoon: The Great Train Robbery, a talk by Simon Williams £1. 2pm. Details: 0118 931 3124.

LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Storytime for ages 3-5. 2.30pm-3pm.

Crafttime for ages 2-5.

Drop-in. 11am-11.30am.

Beaded Delights Workshop with Caroline Marriott.

Session 2: Make bauble earrings. 2pm-4pm. £5.

Storytime for ages 3-5.

2.30pm-3pm. Details: 0118 931 2150.

WINNERSH – Library, The Forest School, Robin Hood Lane RG41 5ND. Keep Calm and Fly Casual: Club for players of the X Wing Miniatures Game, Star Wars and Armada. Age 16 and over. 5.30pm-7.45pm.

Winnersh Book Group.

7pm-8pm. Details: 0118 979 7519.

WOKINGHAM – The Bradbury Centre, Rose Street RG40 1XS. Wokingham Film Society presents: Midnight In Paris. £6.50. 7.30pm. Details: wokinghamfilmsociety.com WOKINGHAM - Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Beading Group.

10.30am-12.30pm. National Careers Service. Advice sessions to help you with

career planning, CVs and interviews. 9.40am to 3.40pm. Details: 0118 978 1368.

Friday, February 12 FINCHAMPSTEAD – Library, FBC Centre RG40 4ES. Rhymetime for under fives.

11am. Details: 0118 908 8176.

LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Pass The Book Club. 10.30am11.30am. Details: 0118 931 2150.

WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Crochet Group with Gaynor White from Barkham Hookers. All abilities welcome. 9.30am11.30am. £4. Local history surgery: drop-in for advice.

10am-noon. Details: 0118 978 1368.

Saturday, February 13 EARLEY – Earley Radstock Social Club, Radstock Lane RG6 5UL. Quiz night. 8pm.

Details: 0118 931 3965.

EARLEY – Path beside Laurel Park football picthes. Planting of Earley Community Orchard. 11amnoon.

LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Dad and Baby Rhymetime. 10.30am11am. Details: 0118 931 2150.

SHINFIELD – Parish Hall, School Green RG2 9EH. Open house session on Shinfield Parish Community Centre. 10am-1pm. Details: SONNING – Reading Blue Coat School. Reading Churches Men’s Group breakfast with guest speaker Lord Michael Farmer: It’s A Rich Man’s World? 8am. £10. including breakfast. Details: 0118 954 3879 or 0118 986 1917.

WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Teen writing group: Read Out Loud.

For ages 11-18. 10.30amnoon. Knitting classes for beginners with Rachel Freeguard: how to read patterns. 10am-noon. £5.

Poetry Writing Group.

10am-11.30am. Details: 0118 978 1368.

WOODLEY – Town Centre.

Market. 9am-4pm. Details: 0118 921 6920 or www. woodleytowncentre.co.uk.

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3LA. Walking group meets.

Come dressed for the weather. 10am. Details: www.christ-churchwoodley.org.uk or 0118 926 8143.

WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. Saturday storytime for parents and children. 11am. Details: 0118 969 0304.

Sunday, February 14 WOODLEY – Town Centre.

Car boot sale. 8am-1pm. £10 per Car or £8 for table top pitch/Walk on, bring own tables.

Details: 07861 654 674 or www.woodleytowncentre. co.uk.

WOODLEY – Christ Church, Crockhamwell Road RG5 3LA. Ecumenical Lent group, focus on Lord’s Prayer.

Details: www.christ-churchwoodley.org.uk or 0118 926 8143.

WOODLEY – Library, Headley Road RG5 4JA. French Conversation Club for those with basic French knowledge. 2pm-3pm.

Details: 0118 969 0304.

Monday, February 15 FINCHAMPSTEAD – Library, FBC Centre RG40 4ES. Adventure stories and crafts for ages five upwards. 2.15pm-3.15pm. £1.50. Details: 0118 908 8176.

LOWER EARLEY – Library, Chalfont Close, Chalfont Way RG6 5HZ. Jack in the Books book club. 10.30am11.30am. Details: 0118 931 2150.

MAIDEN ERLEGH – Library, off Silverdale Road RG6 7HS. Colouring For Adults.

2.15pm-3pm. Details: 0118 966 6630.

TWYFORD – Library, Polehampton Close RG10 9RP. Knit and Natter. Drop in knitting group for adults.

2pm-3pm. Details: 0118 934 0800.

WARGRAVE – Library, Woodclyffe Hostel, Church Street RG10 8EP. Writers forum. 10.30am-noon.

Woodclyffe book group.

5.30pm-6.30pm. Details: 0118 940 4656.

WOKINGHAM – Library, Denmark Street RG40 2BB. Knit, Stitch and Natter.

2pm-3pm. Details: 0118 978 1368.

TALENT

Youth theatre performing Rock of Ages

A MUSICAL set at the tail-end of the 80s is currently being performed by talented teenagers.

Members of the Behind You Productions are presenting their take on Rock of Ages at the Kenton Theatre in Henley until tomorrow (Saturday).

The show follows toilet cleaner Drew as he eyes up a career on the stage, rather than down the pan. But the rock and roll fairy-tale is under threat when developers sweep into town.

Tickets for the musical cost £15 or £13 for concessions.

For more details, visit www. kentontheatre.co.uk or call 01491 575698.

MUSIC

No mystery here: Toyah is performing

A POP icon from the 80s is coming to Camberley tonight (Friday).

Toyah, whose hits included It’s A Mystery, will be performing her Up Close and Personal acoustic show at the Camberley Theatre.

The singer will perform many of her well-loved songs as well as recalling stories from her career which has included filming pop videos on horseback at 5am to acting alongside Katharine Hepburn and Laurence Olivier.

She also had roles in the cult classic film Quadrophenia and pantomime.

Tickets for the show cost £20 or £19 for concessions.

For more details, visit www. camberleytheatre.biz or call 01276 707600.

MUSIC

A celebration of female singer songwriters

A DINNER theatre will be serving up one for the girls on Sunday night.

The First Ladies of Song is a new show coming to The Mill at Sonning and celebrates the best female singer/ songwriters including Joni Mitchell, Kate Bush, Amy Winehouse and Annie Lennox.

Performed by international recording artists Mary Carewe and Mae McKenna, the evening will include popular songs

LEISURE | 25

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Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

Reading next week for a performance of one of the best-loved Aesop’s fables.

The Tortoise and the Hare has been specially adapted for children aged three and upwards to enjoy. It follows the traditional recipe: a fast hare is challenged by a slow coach tortoise to a race – no one thought he could win, but life is full of surprises.

There are two performances of the show on Tuesday - the first at 2pm and the second at 4pm. Tickets cost £7 or £5 for schools.

For more details, visit www. readingarts.com or call 0118 960 6060.

MUSIC

Here, hear Herman’s Hermits HERMAN’S Hermits, Chris Farlowe, Steve Ellis (the voice of Love Affair), Union Gap uk and New Amen Corner are coming to the Thames Valley next month.

This explosive line-up from the 60s will deliver a dose of nostalgia and hits such as I’m Into Something Good, No Milk Today, I’m Henry The 8th and Mrs Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter.

The fun show features the sounds of the 60s from the bands of the 60s.

It will be hosted by Alan Mosca from Freddie and The Dreamers.

It aims to be the ultimate sensational 60s show with more than 25 hits performed. Step back in time and relive the days when pop music was at its very best.

The Sensational 60’s Experience is coming to The Hexagon in Reading on Thursday, March 10.

The concert commences at 7.30pm and tickets are available from 0118 960 6060 or online at www. readingarts.com

such as You’ve Got A Friend and You’re So Vain. The James Bond theme Nobody Does It Better also features.

The evening starts with dinner from 6pm and the show is at 8.15pm. Tickets cost £41, including the meal.

For more details, visit www. millatsonning.com or call 0118 969 8000.

CONCERT

Faure’s Requiem to rise like the Phoenix

THE latest concert from the Reading Phoenix Choir will be performed in Reading town centre tomorrow (Saturday).

This year, the choir will be performing Faure’s Requiem and pieces by Chilcott, Rutter and the King’s Singers. They will be directed by David Crown and the performance features Anna Sideris and Morgan Pearse as soloists.

Tickets for the event at the Concert Hall in Blagrave Street cost from £9.50 to 19.50, while under 16s can enjoy the music for £6.

MUSICAL

Enjoy a close shave at South Hill Park

For more details, visit www. readingphoenixchoir.com/tickets or call 07783 222993

FAMILIES

Count Duckula makes his stage debut

FANS of the classic children’s cartoon Count Duckula are in for a treat on Sunday — he’s making his stage debut.

The Crosgrove Hall animation has been revived as an action-packed adventure for all the family.

It focuses on a quest to find the longlost jewels of Duckula and sees Nanny and Igor in a race against time. Along the way, there will be songs, games and lots of fun.

The performance starts at 2pm at Camberley Theatre. Tickets cost £11 for adults, £9 for children or £34 for a family ticket.

For more details, visit www. camberleytheatre.biz or call 01276 707600.

COMEDY

Monkeys will make it up as they go along

THEY say that an infinite number of monkeys will one day write the complete works of William Shakespeare, but to make you laugh will take considerably fewer.

On Sunday, the regular Mad Monkey Mission IMPROVable team returns to South Hill Park for an evening of laughter.

With no rehearsal, no script and a big imagination, the night will also be big on surprises.

It is suitable for ages 14 upwards and tickets cost just £5.

For more details, visit www. southhillpark.org.uk or call 01344 484123.

BALLET

Be a fast mover to get a ticket to this THE Northern Ballet will return to

A BLOOD-thirsty show is coming to Bracknell later this month when South Hill Park stages a new production of a popular Stephen Sondheim musical.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street tells the story of a man with an insatiable hunger for revenge against people who separated him from his family in a miscarriage of justice. And a love of meat pies.

The musical is being directed by Mark Hooper and is based on the original Broadway show.

It will be performed from Wednesday, February 10, to Saturday, February 13, with a matinee on the Saturday. Tickets cost £16 or £15 for concessions.

For more details, visit www.southhillpark. org.uk or call 01344 484123.

TALK

Happiness — the greatest gift that I possess

WHAT makes us happy? That is the tricky question being posed by Professor Robert Winston, who comes to the Thames Valley next week.

The famous academic will be at Henley’s Kenton Theatre on Thursday, February 11, for his one-man show that examines everything from brain imaging, hormone study, sexuality, child development and psychology in a bid to find the formula to smiling.

Tickets cost £19 and the event is followed by a question and answer session. For more details, visit www. kentontheatre.co.uk or call 01491 575698.

AT THE THEATRE Basingstoke – The Anvil

www.anvilarts.org.uk 01256 844244 Deane Sinfonia. Sat. Heather Small. Sun. Orchestra Unwrapped. Mon. Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Tues. The Devil Inside. Wed. Anton and Erin. Thurs.

Philip Henry and Hannah Martin SOLD OUT. Thurs. Mnozil Brass. Fri 12. Adam Hills. Sun 14.

Basingstoke – The Haymarket www.anvilarts.org.uk 01256 844244 Basingstoke Gang Show. Thurs-Feb 20.

Bracknell – South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk (01344) 484123 Bracknell Jazz: Mark Ridout and support. Fri. Rhys James: Remains.

Jacqui Dankworth and Charlie Wood. Fri. The Comedy Cellar.

Fri. Wilde Sundays. Sun. Mission Improvable. Sun. Sweeney Todd.

Wed-Sat 13. Harvey Lin and Zacharias Brandman: Conservatorie Concert Series. Fri 12. The Comedy Cellar. Fri 12. Artree Live: Folk and Roots Music.

Sat 13. Creative Control Band Night.

Sun 14.

FILMS: Bridge of Spies. Fri-Sun. 1001 Grams. Tues. Superbob. Wed. In The Heart of the Sea. Thurs-Fri. The Walk.

Fri 12. Snoopy and Charlie Brown. Sat 13-Sun 14. When Harry Met Sally.

Sun 14.

Camberley – Theatre www.camberleytheatre.biz 01276 707600 Toyah: Acoustic - Up Close and Personal.

Fri. NVSDD presents Showtime 2016.

Sat. The Jewels of Duckula. Sun. Alun Cochrane. Fri 12.

Didcot – Cornerstone www.cornerstone-arts.org 01235 515144 Luke Daniels: Revolve and Rotate. Fri. Austentatious: An Improvised Jane Austen Novel. Sat. Comedy Club 4 Kids. Sun. Open Mic Night. Tues.

Didcot Schools Instrument Concert.

Wed. Missy Malone and Friends Burlesque Revue. Sat 13.

Guildford – Yvonne Arnaud www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk 01483 440000 Wisdom of a Fool. Fri-Sat. ROH Encore Screening: La Traviata.

Sun. Stalin’s Englishman: The Lives of Guy Burgess. Wed. At The Mountains of Madness. Fri 12. Reverie:

The Life and Loves of Claude Debussy.

Sat 13.

Henley – Kenton Theatre www.kentontheatre.co.uk 01491 575698 Rock of Ages. Until Sat. Professor Robert Winston: What Makes Us Happy, Reading The Human Mind. Thurs.

Roy Orbison and the Travelling Wilburys. Sat 13.

High Wycombe – Wycombe Swan www.wycombeswan.co.uk 01494 512000 The Wedding Reception. Fri. Michael Portillo. Sat. The Sound of Music. TuesSat 13. Tosca. Sun 14.

Maidenhead – Norden Farm www.nordenfarm.org 01628 788997 Friday Night Flamenco. Fri. Mrs Roosevelt Flies To London. Fri. No Jacket Required: The Phil Collins Tribute. Sat. Sunday Stories. Sun. Kwaiden. Thurs.

Dave O’Higgins sax. Fri 12. The Vinyl Frontier: Rubber Soul. Fri 12. Martin Turner, ex Wishbone Ash. Sat 13. Tim Fitzhigham: The Gambler. Sat 13.

Jenny Eclair: How To Be A Middle Aged

Woman (without going insane). Sun 14.

FILM: Star Wars: the Force Awakens. Fri, Sun. ROH Live: La Traviata. Sun. Doctor Zhivago. Sun 14.

Newbury – The Corn Exchange www.cornexchangenew.com 0845 5218 218 Thank You For The Music. Sat. Mark Steel: Who Do I Think I Am? Wed. Dillie Keane. Thurs. Mark Thomas: Trespass.

Fri 12. A Viennese Strauss Gala. Sat 13.

FILM: Youth (15).

Newbury – Watermill www.watermill.org.uk 01635 46044 Tell Me On A Sunday. Until Feb 20.

Reading – South Street www.readingarts.com 0118 960 6060 Isy Suttie: The Actual One. SOLD OUT. Fri. South Street Youth Theatre: Sector 7.

Tues-Wed. Limehouse Lizzy. Fri 12. Phir Le Aaya Dil. Sat 13. Sitelines: Team of the Decades. Sat 13, Sun 14.

Reading – The Hexagon www.readingarts.com 0118 960 6060 European Union Chamber Orchestra.

Mon 8. Tortoise and the Hare. Tues.

Brendan Cole: A Night To Remember.

Wed. World Snooker Shoot Out. Fri 12-Sun 14.

Reading – Concert Hall www.readingarts.com 0118 960 6060 Reading Phoenix Choir. Sat. The Mayor’s Valentine’s Ball. Fri 12.

Reading – Progress Theatre www.progresstheatre.co.uk 0118 384 2195 You Don’t Know by Hilary James: album launch. Fri. NEXT SHOW: Steel Magnolias. Mon 15-Sat 20.

Reading – St Barts www.stbartstheatre.org 07737 477193 NEXT PLAY: The Boy That Bit Picasso.

Sat 13.

Shinfield – Shinfield Players www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 0118 975 8880 NEXT PLAY: The Dumb Waiter and Something Unspoken: two plays, one evening. March 9-12.

Sonning – The Mill www.millatsonning.com 0118 969 8000

The Perfect Murder. Until March 12. The Neil Diamond and Barbara Streisand Show. Sun 14.

Windsor – Theatre Royal www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 01753 853888 New Jersey Nights. Until Sat. Confusions.

Mon-Sat 13. Hero’s Welcome. TuesThurs.

Woking – New Victoria www.ambassadortickets.com 0844 871 7645 Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty.

Until Sat. Motown’s Greatest Hits: How Sweet It Is. Sun. I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue. Mon. Halfway to Paradise: The Billy Fury Story. Wed. Brendan Cole. Thurs. Ellen Kent’s Tosca. Fri 12. Ellen Kent’s Carmen.

Sat 13.

Wokingham – Theatre www.wokingham-theatre.org.uk 0118 978 5363 NEXT SHOW: The London Cuckolds.

March 3-12.

Woodley – Theatre www.woodleytheatre.org 07939 210121 NEXT SHOW: Entertaining Angels. Feb 16-20.

26 | LEISURE

To advertise email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Gig guide Friday, February 5 ASCOT – Jagz, Station Road.

Stanley Dee. Details: 01344 878100.

BAGSHOT – The Cedar Tree, High Street GU19 5AG. Soul’d Out. Details: 01276 473160.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Ed Sheeran cabaret night and Beth Morris from The Voice.

Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Mark Ridout and Support. Jacqui Dankworth and Charlie Wood. Details: 01344 484123.

CAMBERLEY – Mr Bumble, GU17 9AP. The Lord John Band. Details: 01276 32691.

Details: 0118 959 7196.

SANDHURST – The White Swan, Swan Lane GU47 9BU. Creme Freche. Details: 01252 872444.

WINDLESHAM – Windlesham Club, Kennel Lane GU20 6AA. Tony Barker and Keith Chilvers. Details: 01276 472210.

WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. Pauly Zarb. Details: 0118 978 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Molly Millar, Station Road RG40 2AD. 70s, 80s night with DJ Mally. Details: 0118 977 4548.

WOKINGHAM – The Red Lion, Market Place RG40 1AL. Ultimate Party Nights.

Details: 0118 979 5790.

Pauly Zarb will be at the Broad Street Tavern tonight CAMBERLEY – The Royal Standard, Frimley Road GU15 2PP. Said and Done.

Details: 01276 27641.

CAMBERLEY – The Four Horseshoes, Frimley Road GU15 3EQ. Charlie Chandlers Little Rock.

Details: 01276 63842.

FARNBOROUGH – The Alexandra, Victoria Road GU14 7PH. Zak. Details: 01252 519964.

FLEET – The Fox and Hounds, Crookham Road GU51 5NP. England’s Dreaming. Details: 01252 663686.

READING – The Red Lion, Southampton Street RG1 2QL. Red Lion Rock: Mod Band Night - Wardour Street. Details: 0118 958 2797.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Spear of Destiny.

Willie and the Bandits.

Justin Bieber Appreciation Society Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Deep Fat: Inspirations Takeover.

Saturday, February 6 BINFIELD – Victoria Arms, Terrace Road North RG42 5JA. D’Artagnan. Details: 01344 483856.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Peach.

Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. Red Aztek. Details: 01344457318.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. White Light. Details: 01344 422622.

CAMBERLEY – Mr Bumble, GU17 9AP. Forty45. Details: 01276 32691.

FARNBOROUGH – The Alexandra, Victoria Road GU14 7PH. Phil and Al. Details: 01252 519964.

FLEET – The Falkners Arms, Falkners Close GU51 2XF. The Soultones. Details: 01252 811311.

FLEET – The Harlington, Fleet Road GU51 4BY. Fleetwood

HOPE & ANCHOR Free entry, fantastic beers & a great night out!

This Saturday @ 9pm

THE IMPOSTERS Five-piece rock and pop covers band

WEY LIVE MUSIC

Coming next Saturday, February 13

In Too Deep

Classic rock anthems

Station Road, Wokingham RG40 2AD 0118 978 0918 www.hopeanchor.co.uk

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

HOLDING A GIG, QUIZ OR GAMES NIGHT? SEND DETAILS TO EVENTS@WOKINGHAMPAPER.CO.UK Bac. Details: 01252 811009.

FRIMLEY GREEN – Frimley Green Working Mens Club, Sturt Road GU16 6HX. CoolBeans. Details: 01252 835322.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Syn City Rockers. Details: 0118 957 6930.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Knoxville Highway. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – O’Neills, Friar Street RG1 1BD. Live music.

Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – The Walkabout, Wiston Terrace, off Friar Street. Saturday Sessions.

Details: 0118 953 0000.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. SoundJam. Details: 0118 959 7196.

SANDHURST – The Rose and Crown, High Street GU47 8HA. Blonde Ambition CANCELLED. Details: 01252 878938.

WEST END – West End Social Club, High Street GU26 9PL. Uptown Traffic. Details: 01276 858501.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. The Imposters. Details: 0118 978 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Molly Millar, Station Road RG40 2AD. 70s, 80s night with DJ Mally. Details: 0118 977 4548.

WOKINGHAM – The Red Lion, Market Place RG40 1AL. Ultimate Party Nights.

Details: 0118 979 5790.

YATELEY – The Dog and Partridge, The Green GU46 7LR. Lou Taylor. Details: 01252 870648.

Sunday, February 7 BRACKNELL – The Crown Wood, Opladen Way RG12 0PE. Jam session: Martin Deadman acoustic. Details: 01344 867374.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Wilde Sundays and Creative Control Band Night. Details: 01344 484123.

READING – The Walkabout, Wiston Terrace, off Friar Street. Super Bowl 50.

Details: 0118 953 0000.

READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Readifolk: George Papavgeris. Details: 0118 958 6692.

FLEET – Prince of Wales, Reading Road South GU52 7SY. NRG. Details: 01252 614284.

WEST END – West End Social Club, High Street GU26 9PL. Open mic and jam night.

Details: 01276 858501.

The Imposters will be at the Hope and Anchor tomorrow night

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Blossoms/The Vryll Society/Viola Beach.

Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. BBC Introducing LIVE: Nytclub and Taluah Kills. Details: 0118 959 7196.

STOKE ROW – Crooked Billet RG9 5PU. Purdy. Details: 01491 681048.

TWYFORD – The Golden Cross, Waltham Road RG10 9EG. Open Mic night with Damian Delahunty. Details: 07946 342551.

Thursday, February 11 CAMBERLEY – Mr Bumble, GU17 9AP. Jam Night.

Details: 01276 32691.

CAMBERLEY – The Royal Standard, Frimley Road GU15 2PP. Acoustic Evening. Details: 01276 27641.

FLEET – Propaganda Music Canteen, Fleet Road GU51 3BU. Bonaventure. Details: 01252 620198.

HENLEY – Magoos, Hart Street. Stars In Their Minds karaoke. Details: 01491 574595.

READING – O'Neill's, Blagrave Street RG1 1DB. Open mic night. Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – The Walkabout, Wiston Terrace, off Friar Street. Karaoke Thursday.

Details: 0118 953 0000.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Dreadzone and Solar Wolf. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Two Step Presents: The Black Tambourines/Haize/ Kaldera. The Return of the Reggae Reggae Show.

Details: 0118 959 7196.

Friday, February 12 BAGSHOT – The Cedar Tree, High Street GU19 5AG. Serious Chord Squad.

Details: 01276 473160.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Average Chalky White Band and King Loud: The Keller Auditions. Details: 01344 303333.

CAMBERLEY – The Four Horseshoes, Frimley Road GU15 3EQ. Platinum Floyd.

Details: 01276 63842.

CAMBERLEY – The Royal Standard, Frimley Road GU15 2PP. Nevermind.

Details: 01276 27641.

FARNBOROUGH – The Alexandra, Victoria Road GU14 7PH. Steve Conway.

Details: 01252 519964.

HENLEY–ON–THAMES – The Queen Victoria, Market Place RG9 2AG. Mythical Men. Details: 01491 412667.

LITTLEWICK GREEN – The Novello, Bath Road SL6

3RX. Lea Lyle Quartet.

Details: 01628 825753.

READING – South Street.

Limehouse Lizzy. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Grosvenor Casino Reading, Rose Kiln Lane RG2 0SN. Soul Satisfaction: The Amercian Four Tops Show. Details: 0118 402 7800.

READING – Sub89, Friar Street RG1 1EP. Attention Thieves - last ever show. Details: 0118 959 5395.

READING – The Turks, London Road RG1 5BJ. Highwasters.

Details: 0118 957 6930.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. Influences: Terraforms Takeover. Details: 0118 959 7196.

WOKINGHAM – The Warren, Forest Road RG40 5SB. Nick Zala-Webb. Details: 01344 304446 WOKINGHAM – Broad Street Tavern, Broad Street RG40 1AU. The Gas Trick Band. Details: 0118 978 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Molly Millar, Station Road RG40 2AD. 70s, 80s night with DJ Mally. Details: 0118 977 4548.

WOKINGHAM – The Red Lion, Market Place RG40 1AL. Ultimate Party Nights.

Details: 0118 979 5790.

YATELEY – Blackwater Valley Golf Centre, Sean Deveraux Park GU46 7SZ. Poppy's

Saturday, February 13 BAGSHOT – The White Hart, Guildford Road GU19 5JW. Thunderhead. Details: 01276 473640.

BRACKNELL – The Keller, Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way RG12 8TF. Forty45. Details: 01344 303333.

BRACKNELL – The Silver Birch, Liscombe RG12 7DE. The Miller Family. Details: 01344457318.

BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Artree Live: Folk and Roots. Details: 01344 484123.

BRACKNELL – The Royal Oak, London Road RG12 2NN. The Vinyl Covers. Details: 01344 422622.

EVERSLEY – The White Hart, The Street RG27 0PJ. Blonde Ambition. Details: 0118 973 2817.

FARNBOROUGH – The Alexandra, Victoria Road GU14 7PH. Mike Hughes.

Details: 01252 519964.

FLEET – The Falkners Arms, Falkners Close GU51 2XF. Soul’d Out. Details: 01252 811311.

READING – South Street. Phir Le Aaya Dil with Junoon.

Jonty Wilks: A Journey Into A Deep, Deep Place. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – Jazz Cafe, Shooters Way, Madjeski Stadium RG2 0FL. Chain Gang. Details: 0118 968 1442.

READING – South Street. Phir Le Aaya Dil. Details: 0118 960 6060.

READING – O’Neills, Friar Street RG1 1BD. Live music.

Details: 0118 960 6580.

READING – The Purple Turtle, Gun Street RG1 2JR. SoundJam. Details: 0118 959 7196.

SANDHURST – Wellington Arms, Yorktown Road GU47 9BN. The Ukaye Ukes.

Details: 01252 872408.

WEST END – West End Social Club, High Street GU26 9PL. Kevin Bull (solo artist).

Details: 01276 858501.

WOKINGHAM – The Two Poplars, Finchampstead Road RG41 2NU. Uptown Traffic. Details: 0118 978 0590.

WOKINGHAM – Hope and Anchor, Station Road RG40 2AD. In Too Deep. Details: 0118 978 0918.

WOKINGHAM – The Molly Millar, Station Road RG40 2AD. 70s, 80s night with DJ Mally. Details: 0118 977 4548.

WOKINGHAM – The Red Lion, Market Place RG40 1AL. Ultimate Party Nights. Details: 0118 979 5790.

YATELEY – The Dog and Partridge, The Green GU46 7LR. Vince Freeman. Details: 01252 870648.

Sunday, February 14

Tuesday, February 9 PLAYHATCH – The Flowing Spring, Henley Road RG4 9RB. Mind Tricks with Ian Raven and live music.

Details: 0118 969 9878.

Wednesday, February 10 FLEET – Propaganda Music Canteen, Fleet Road GU51 3BU. Kerry and Smiley.

Details: 01252 620198.

Folk & Acoustic club presents: Payne’s People.

Details: www.poppyfolk. co.uk YATELEY – The Cricketers, Cricket Hill Lane GU46 6BA. Gary Roman is Elvis.

Details: 01252 872105.

In Too Deep will be at the Hope and Anchor on Saturday, February 13

ASCOT – Jagz, Station Road.

Sunday jazz: the Dave Newtown Trio. Details: 01344 878100 BRACKNELL – South Hill Park, Ringmead. Wilde Sundays and Creative Control Band Night. Details: 01344 484123.

BRACKNELL – The Crown Wood, Opladen Way RG12 0PE. Jam session: Martin Deadman acoustic. Details: 01344 867374.

READING – RISC, London Street RG1 4PS. Readifolk: Theme Night: For Love Or Money. Details: 0118 958 6692.

LEISURE | 27

To advertise call 0118 328 2959

Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

AT THE CINEMA

The acoustic couch

Youth is unsettling but is only skin deep

Kindred Spirit seeks kindred spirits

Upcoming music with Jody Mc

Prog folk rock – now that’s a genre to listen out for. JODY Mc looks forward to their April gig

A

Stars: Michael Caine, Paul Dano, Rachel Weisz and Harvey Keitel

M

ICHAEL Caine is an acting legend. He’s inhabited some of the big screen’s most iconic roles, and stamped his own indelible mark on them. There’s Harry Palmer, there’s Alfie, there’s Charlie Croker, and there’s Jack Carter – among many others.

He’s also responsible, of course, for some best forgotten – but frequently remembered for all the wrong reasons – roles in films like Jaws: The Revenge and The Swarm, and more recently Journey 2: The Mysterious Island and the pitiful The Last Witch Hunter.

But in Youth, Caine’s never been better. As retired composer and conductor, Fred Ballinger, he ups his game, buoyed by an on-form Harvey Keitel.

On holiday at a Swiss health spa with daughter Lena (Rachel Weisz) and film director friend Mick Boyle (Keitel), Fred discusses the finer details of his life – resentments, misunderstandings and regrets over the beautiful women he never slept with included – as he debates whether or not to accept an invitation from the Queen to perform for Prince Philip’s birthday.

Friend Mick indulges similar musings, though he struggles to remember large chunks of his life, and things are brought into stark relief for him when faded screen star Brenda Morel (a feisty and fabulous Jane Fonda) shows up to let the director down having accepted a TV role over the film Mick is currently preparing for.

Lena, meanwhile, sorts through her own feelings of middle-age angst, having been jilted by her husband for a younger woman. It soon becomes clear that Youth isn’t about youth per se; it’s about getting older, and being old – and how youth is viewed through that filter, whether mourning the loss of youth, regretting things not done or processing the lust stoked by the young and their young bodies.

Youth, director Paolo Sorrentino says, is a preoccupation of the old; and, in particular, he spends time observing lust – specifically the lust inspired in the older man for young women. He juxtaposes young bodies with old bodies and asks us subtly to question our notions of physical attractiveness in the context of age.

There’s one scene involving a traditionally beautiful naked woman in a pool. The camera lingers on her slow, deliberate and self-aware performance as she strides into the water, and it’s extremely discomfiting to see these two old men, Fred and Mick, leering.

Although she appears to invite it, it’s clear we’re seeing her and the ‘performance’ through the eyes of two men aware of their own mortality and lamenting their own lost youth. Their reduction of her to a sex object is sad, and what they’re really obsessed with is the fountain of youth in which they’re symbolically bathing.

An unsettling film, Sorrentino’s study of youth never really gets under the skin of its theme or characters, but it does ask lots of questions. We’re left with a sense of pointlessness to existence, and to the film perhaps, and an awareness of the absurdity of life and human nature. Youth is far from perfect, but it’s always captivating.

STR8TS

Kindred Spirit will be performing in Bracknell very soon

SUDOKU

No. 267

Tough

Previous solution - Medium

9

7 6

7 7

3 4 5 2

1 6 6

8

3 9 6 1 You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

6 7 8 5 1 2 3 4

7 8 9 8 9 6 1 3 1 4 2 2 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 8 5 7

2 3 7 8 9 6

2 3 4 9 5 6 7

1 4 5 7 6 8 9 2 8 3

5 6 8 7 2 3 4

No. 267

Easy

6

5 7

Previous solution - Very Hard

6 8 4 9 5 7 3 2 1

9 6

2 5 2 3 8 2 7 3 4

2 4

7 1 3 5

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

6 3 1

1 4

3

1 9

8

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

Youth (15) «««««

PROG folk rock band is preparing for first of its festival concerts of 2016.

Kindred Spirit, formed by singer/song-writer/guitarist Elaine Samuels in the mid 1990s, is still forging on, like all the best bands.

Last year, the group released Phoenix Rising, their “stunning new album” and the Fourplay Prog Rock Festival is coming soon.

The Kindred Spirit Band is still rocking in 2016, although they say being a band of the prog (folk) rock genre means that it can be difficult to slot them into the programme of the average venue, as well as “place” their music for public consumption.

They say that they can be seen as “too rocky” for the folk world and “too folky” for the rock world but they have a very unusual line-up. This is also one of the elements that makes their music so special...

This unique band features the “haunting and beautiful” voice of Elaine as well as her powerful, “perceptive and intriguing” songs, alongside clear and mellifluous flute, awesome electric violin and driving bass and drums.

The two lead players frequently fly into exciting musical duels and foot stomping jigs and reels.

The music recorded on their latest album was described as “extraordinarily beautiful” by Neil Mach from Ad Pontes who probably describes it best by going on to say it: “Contains the ethereal quality you might find in early ...It has that dramatic ‘ feel about it. It immediately draws the listener into enormous depths – the pay-off is , exciting.”

Elaine has been driving the band almost since she began her music career. A solo performer, she then recruited the musicians, forming the band around herself. Even though

there have been plenty of changes to the line-up over the years, the instruments played in the band have remained the same and currently, the band features highly classically trained Gavin Jones, on electric violin, who has been compared to Nigel Kennedy, and the masterful Catherine Dimmock, on flute and saxophone, Mike Hislop, on electric bass and either the famous (ex Judas Priest) drummer, Les Binks or young, rising star drummer, Chris Goode (who is currently studying a degree in drums and percussion, with a view to becoming a session drummer).

Elaine has also played solo concerts and festivals up and down the length of the country, since becoming a professional musician in the early 1990s. She has been featured on TV several times singing her own work as well as at some special music venues, like the Marquee Club, the Barbican, folk festivals and supports to bigger names, like the Albion Band and on radio shows.

“Elaine has a voice which can be both hauntingly beautiful & deeply emotional, coupled with a powerful stage presence. Her material ranges from folk through to blues, but it is her rich repertoire of perceptive, intriguing self-penned songs combined with her guitar work which sets her apart,” wrote Rosie Upton in Bath Evening Chronicle.

“Think the Brits can‘t deliver a terrific acoustic performance? I‘ll show you something that‘ll make you change your mind. Anyone venturing to England should check out an excellent acoustic artist, Elaine Samuels, working either solo or front and centre for her duo Kindred Spirit,” wrote journalist Tom Greenfield.

Being able to hear the Kindred Spirit band play their unique music in a super concert venue is a must! Don’t miss them at this first Fourplay Prog Rock Festival on Saturday, April 9 at The Acoustic Couch in Bracknell.

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

Kim Taylor-Foster

2 9 5 1 6 3 8 4 7

3 7 1 8 4 2 6 5 9

4 3 7 2 9 6 1 8 5

9 5 8 3 1 4 7 6 2

1 6 2 5 7 8 9 3 4

7 2 9 6 8 5 4 1 3

8 1 3 4 2 9 5 7 6

5 4 6 7 3 1 2 9 8

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

IN A BAND? HOLDING A GIG? HEARD SOME GREAT MUSIC? WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! E-MAIL NEWS@WOKINGHAMPAPER.CO.UK

Your weekly puzzle challenge

28 | LEISURE

To advertise email advertising@wokinghampaper.co.uk

Quiz Challenge

CROSS CODE 23

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1. Brooklyn Bridge connects which two New York boroughs?

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3. The Divine Miss M is the nickname of which entertainer?

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4. What is Good King Henry?

1 1 10

5. What type of apparel was named after Arthur Wellesley?

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NONAGRAM

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Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MAGIC SQUARE

REPAIRS SMALL POEM

Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another within the pyramid. You may only enter each of the chambers once and may only proceed G through openings in the walls. The O first letter may appear in any chamber.

L O

I

D

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines: 38 Good; 46 Very Good; 53 Excellent.

UL

OA

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which will fit in the grid to form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

IL

TN

KR

OA

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OE

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IR

9 2 3 6 8

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Here are two miniature fivesquare crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up.

You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

FA

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same.

9 7

Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

All puzzles on this page are supplied by Sirius Media Services.

To try more of our puzzles interactively online go to www.puzzledrome.com

4

8

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EQUALISER 6 9 4 1 3 3 5 10 3 1 11 2

Hard

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

4 7 3 1 9 4 3 5 8 9 7 8 2 3

C

MF

SUDOKU Easy

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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

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WORD PYRAMID

S A D

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ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

T

6. US President Jimmy Carter was previously governor of which state?

7. What, in 1997, was Lord Gyllene’s sporting claim to fame?

8. Which inventor was born in Milan, Ohio, on February 11, 1847?

9. Which 20th century writer had the first names Pelham Grenville?

10. In 2010 US actress Reese Witherspoon received which famous acting accolade?

2. By what other name in the United States is the whistlepig or woodchuck known?

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

© Sirius Media Services Ltd

25

ACROSS 1. Flattery resulting from delightful discussion (5,4) 8. It’s only water (4) 9. Simple melody not performed by yodellers? (9) 11. Let sleeping fish smoke? (6) 12. Batting team not out on the field (6) 13. Distant object used to buy very little (8) 16. Hampered literary drudge in the vehicle with runners (8) 20. Seek to change sides because of fault (6) 21. Frightful sort of bear, we hear (6) 23. Short neat characters reassembled in one corner (5-4) 24. Tear round at speed (4) 25. City seat wheeled in for invalids (4,5)

DOWN 2. Spring approaching? Almost (4-4) 3. Draw forth legal point first (6) 4. Discriminating in a sense almost complete (8) 5. Left dark liquid to make connection (4) 6. Helped out with change of vowel in Greek city (6) 7. Left-wing paper, it incites one’s anger (3,3) 10. Talent of American soldier on foot (4) 14. Get rid of colour first in the Midlands (8) 15. Large number included in variety of raisins – or flowers (8) 16. Sweet girl endlessly with Gareth (6) 17. Fly in from Madeira via Tenerife (6) 18. 5 Down forged in furnace (4) 19. From far she appeared anew (6) 22. A Gentile returns with eastern philosophy (4)

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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SOLUTIONS

ACROSS 1. Type of triangle (9) 9. Italian city (6) 10. Norse deity (4) 11. Lean (4) 12. Shallow lake (6) 13. Endanger (7) 16. Freshwater duck (4) 17. Large car (inf.) (4) 18. Ballet step (3) 20. Tibetan ox (3) 21. Appear (4) 23. French soft cheese (4)

25. Presume (anag.) (7) 26. Infuse (6) 29. Wander (4) 30. Egg cell (4) 31. Impassive (6) 32. Close shave (4,5) DOWN 2. Strategy (6) 3. Acid-tasting herb (6) 4. Involve (6) 5. Wicked (4) 6. US legislator (7) 7. Ballpoint pen (4)

8. US state (9) 13. Tiny (inf.) (4-5) 14. Set of cards (4) 15. School punishment (5) 18. Remove by slicing (4) 19. Analgesic (7) 22. Speak softly (6) 23. Item of jewellery (6) 24. Call in question (6) 27. Unhurried (4) 28. Deposit of ore (4)

4 7 3 2 6 9 5 8 1

2 5 1 7 3 8 9 6 4

6 8 9 4 5 1 7 2 3

1 2 6 8 4 7 3 9 5

7 3 8 1 9 5 2 4 6

9 4 5 3 2 6 8 1 7

8 1 2 5 7 4 6 3 9

3 9 7 6 1 2 4 5 8

5 6 9 4 1 7 3 2 8

5 6 4 9 8 3 1 7 2

EASY SUDOKU

Z

14 1

A

15 2

J

U

3

CROSS CODE

2 8 1 9 5 3 4 7 6

1 3 2 7 4 6 5 8 9

6 9 7 1 8 5 2 3 4

4 5 8 3 2 9 7 6 1

9 4 5 2 3 8 6 1 7

8 2 6 5 7 1 9 4 3

7 1 3 6 9 4 8 5 2

HARD SUDOKU

X

16

3 7 4 8 6 2 1 9 5

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17 4

K

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P

WORD PYRAMID: Chronologically.

EQUALISER: Clockwise from top left – multiply; add; divide; subtract.

Total: 7.

MAGIC SQUARE: Alps; lore; pram; semi.

O

23

N

10

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QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Isosceles; 9 Venice; 10 Thor; 11 Thin; 12 Lagoon; 13 Imperil; 16 Teal; 17 Limo; 18 Pas; 20 Yak; 21 Seem; 23 Brie; 25 Supreme; 26 Instil; 29 Roam; 30 Ovum; 31 Stolid; 32 Near thing.

Down – 2 Scheme; 3 Sorrel; 4 Entail; 5 Evil; 6 Senator; 7 Biro; 8 Tennessee; 13 Itsy-bitsy; 14 Pack; 15 Lines; 18 Pare; 19 Aspirin; 22 Murmur; 23 Brooch; 24 Impugn; 27 Slow; 28 Lode.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Sweet talk; 8 Mere; 9 Plainsong; 11 Kipper; 12 Inside; 13 Farthing; 16 Shackled; 20 Defect; 21 Grisly; 23 North-east; 24 Rate; 25 Bath chair.

Down – 2 Well-nigh; 3 Elicit; 4 Tasteful; 5 Link; 6 Delphi; 7 Red rag; 10 Gift; 14 Redditch; 15 Narcissi; 16 Sugary; 17 Aviate; 18 Kiln; 19 Afresh; 22 Yoga.

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Brooklyn and Manhattan; 2 Groundhog; 3 Bette Midler; 4 A plant (it is a species of goosefoot); 5 The Wellington boot (he was the Duke of Wellington); 6 Georgia; 7 It won the Grand National; 8 Thomas Alva Edison; 9 P.G. Wodehouse; 10 A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

FIVE ALIVE: (1) Across – Jilts; Korea; Dwarf.

Down – Joked; Larva; Staff.

(2) Across – Plunk; Razor; Sepia.

Down – Parks; Unzip; Karma.

NONAGRAM: abed; abide; abided; abode; adobe; adsorb; adsorbed; baddie; bade; bard; barded; bardo; bare; bared; base; based; baser; bead; bear; beard; bedad; bias; biased; bidder; bide; bided; bier; bird; biro; boar; board; boarded; bode; boded; bodied; bora; bore; bored; boride; brad; brae; braid; braided; braise; braised; bread; bred; bride; brio; brisé; broad; BROADSIDE; brose; debar; debris; desorb; disbar; disrobe; disrobed; dobra; drab; isobar; rabid; rabies; rebid; ribose; roadbed; robe; robed; sabre; seabird; sidebar; SIDEBOARD; soba; sober; sorb.

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11+ (CEM) Tutor

MEMOREX UK LIMITED PENSION PLAN (“THE PLAN”) Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 27 of the Trustee Act 1925 that the Trustee of the Plan is intending that the Plan is wound up.

Members of the Plan have been contacted and sent details of the winding up and it is believed that all such members of the Plan and their benefits have been identified.

Any employee or former employee of the companies or former companies listed at the end of this notice or any other person, who believes he or she was a member of the Plan and has claim against, or entitlement to a pension or any benefit from, or interest in the Plan and who has not already been contacted, is hereby required to send particulars in writing of their claim or interest or beneficial interest. Persons should send details including their full name, address, date of birth, National Insurance number and date of entry into membership of the Plan to: Memorex UK Limited Pension Plan Administrators Capita Employee Benefits 2nd Floor 145 Morrison Street Edinburgh EH3 8FJ so as to reach that address within two months of the date of publication of this notice.

After this date the Trustee will proceed with the winding up of the Plan and will only have regard to persons of whose claims and entitlements it has notice before the period ending two months from the date of this notice and will not be liable to any other person.

COMPANIES HP Enterprise Services UK Limited (previously known as Electronic Data Systems Ltd) Memorex Computer Supplies Ltd Memorex Europe Engineering Ltd Memorex Europe Ltd Memorex International Ltd Memorex International Services BV Memorex Telex Manufacturing Ltd Memorex Telex Services BV Memorex Telex Holdings (UK) Ltd (previously known as Memorex Computer Products (UK) Limited and Telex Computer Products (UK) Ltd) Telex Computer Products Manufacturing Ltd EDS Global Field Services Ltd (previously known as Memorex Telex (UK) Ltd, Memorex UK Ltd and Memorex Precision Products Ltd) Any person who has already been in contact with or recently received correspondence from the Trustee is not required to respond to this notice.

For and on behalf of the Trustees of the Plan

For Reading, Kendrick and Slough Grammar Schools.

Structured approach, track record.

Based in Wokingham. www.11plustutor.education 07906 387368

For sale Sell your goods with a free advert for items under £250 Having a clear out? Why not turn your treasure into cash with our free adverts? Sell your items without any fee with the aid of this coupon.

Items* valued at up to £250 can be sold in these columns for free! Simply send us the details –maximum of 30 words – and post or email it and we’ll do the rest. Please note we are unable to accept free ads by phone.

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CLASSIFIEDS | 29

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Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

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WOKINGHAM SPORT

Unrivalled coverage of sport in the Borough

Contact the sports desk: sport@wokinghampaper.co.uk | Log on the for latest sports news www.wokinghampaper.co.uk

SAMIR IS THE SAVIOUR: Kharbouch try secured Rams a vital victory over Clifton — Page 35

MBBO HOCKEY LEAGUE

Sharp-shooter Jon fires up Men’s promotion chances

Sonning’s Helen Dacre goes close during the 4-0 victory over local rivals Wokingham Ladies at Cantley Park Pictures: Paul King

TRYSPORTS HOCKEY LEAGUE

Waddington helps Sonning Ladies to one Gem of a win A four-game winning streak for GEMMA WADDINGTON, Kathryn Petch and Kristin Cooper were among the goals for Sonning 2s, however, is over following a Sonning Ladies side which took the points a 3-1 reverse to Oxford Hawks 3s in a and bragging rights with a 4-0 triumph over fifth-played-sixth encounter at Berkshire County Sports.

Wokingham Ladies.

Sonning 3s, meanwhile, pushed Victory at Cantley Park keeps the promotionvisitors third in chasing the Trysports Newbury and Premier 1 table, where Thatcham Ladies they sit six 2s hard, but were points behind to leave the pitch second-placed beaten by the Amersham odd goal in five. and Chalfont Defeat Ladies and means Sonning 12 off leaders continue to sit Reading 2s, who bottom of the have played two Division 1 table games more.

– and things get Lily Lamming (right) makes the interception For no easier this Wokingham, a weekend either, 13th loss in 16 as they play host to runaway leaders games leaves the club stuck at the foot of Wallingford 2s. the table, where the difference in points Charlotte Coombs was on target for between them and Aylesbury in 11th is Wokingham 2s, but the effort would three. prove to be in vain against a visiting

Buckingham 3s side which ran out 4-1 winners in Division 2.

Away at Division 3 table-toppers Wallingford 3s, struggling Sonning 4s saw Angela Clements, Hatty Wood, twice, and Sarah Lye all strike the backboard as the hosts celebrated a 4-0 success.

Sonning Veterans continue to sit just a place off bottom spot in Division 4 following a 3-1 defeat at Newbury and Thatcham 3s, but it was a satisfactory afternoon for the fifth XI. In arguably the stand out result of the division, the home side pulled themselves up to seventh position courtesy of an impressive 5-1 victory over a Buckinghamshire 4s side which arrived in the village sitting third in the standings.

Fixtures - Saturday February 6

TRYSPORTS PREMIER 1: Oxford University Ladies 2s v Wokingham Ladies; Wycombe 2s v Sonning 2s, Aylesbury Ladies v Sonning Ladies.

DIVISION 1: Sonning 3s v Wallingford 2s DIVISION 2: Banbury 3s v Wokingham 2s DIVISION 3: Scarlet Runners v Sonning 4s DIVISION 4: Sonning Veterans v Windsor 2s DIVISION 6: Bicester 4s v Sonning 5s

Left: Wokingham’s Helena Badger gives chase, as Megan Watkins holds off an opponent, above

JON SHARP struck four times to help Sonning Men back to winning ways courtesy of a 6-1 thrashing of Bracknell in MBBO Regional Division 2.

Sharp was joined on the scoresheet

by James Lockhart and Huw Thomas as the villagers bagged a seventh win of the season, which saw the side climb above British Airways and up to fourth in the table.

Daniel Ray hit a consolation for Bracknell, who continue to keep Wokingham Men off the foot of the table.

Impressive 4-1 winners over West Hampstead 2s last time out, Wokingham were unable to keep up the habit at midtable Slough, where they were thumped 8-1.

Bobbie Bansal and Robbie Sandhu netted twice for the home side, but both were to be outscored by Rai Singh, who led the way with a hat-trick.

Phil Rees was also on target.

A Noel Plant effort and Matt Poulton’s two-goal salvo could not steet Sonning 2s away from defeat at Bicester.

Through Andy Brown, Ben Kirk and a Callum White double, the hosts secured a 4-3 victory.

Sonning 3s, meanwhile, were narrowly beaten 2-1 by Milton Keynes 3s, for whom Sam Bushell and Ben Spencer helped record the win.

Adrian Trueman grabbed a goal back for the villagers, but they remain in a relegation battle.

Duncan Clarke scored twice and saw Richard Wallace hit a third as Wokingham 2s won their basement

battle with Oxford 4s in Division 3.

Wokingham now sit 10th on 12 points.

But it was a day to forget for Sonning 4s, who were simply no match for Wootton Wanderers. They went top of Division 4 thanks to a 10-0 triumph.

This leaves the opposition bottom of the pile, where they are seven points adrift of the team above them, Phoenix and Ranelagh 2s.

Wokingham 3s played out a 2-2 draw with Banbury Piranhas in Division 7, with the point keeping them in eighth place.

Sonning 5s, though, sit top of the charts in Division 8 West once again after edging a tight encounter with title rivals Oxford 7s 2-1, but the 6S were outscored by the odd goal in seven when up against fellow promotion contenders Newbury and Thatcham in Division 9 West.

The 7S, however, now prop up the rest after they were routed 4-0 by Henley 4s.

In the Wessex Supervets Fixtures Alliance, Wokingham Vets thrashed Winchester Wanderers 4-0 Fixtures — Saturday February 6

MBBO REGIONAL DIVISION 2: Banbury 2s v Sonning Men, Wokingham Men v Phoenix and Ranelagh DIVISION 1: Sonning 2s v Tring DIVISION 2: Newbury and Thatcham 2s v Sonning 3s DIVISION 3: Wokingham 2s v Oxford 5s DIVISION 4: Sonning 4s v West Hampstead 5s DIVISION 7: Slough Swifts v Wokingham 3s DIVISION 8 WEST: Sonning 5s v Phoenix and Ranelagh 3s DIVISION 9 WEST: Abingdon 3s v Sonning 7s, Sonnng 6s v Wallingford 5s WESSEX ALLIANCE: Haslemere Vets v Wokingham Vets

BASKETBALL

Robinson an injury doubt as Rockets look to book date in the Trophy final TEAM NORTHUMBRIA stand in the way of Reading Rockets and a first final of the season on Sunday (5pm tip-off).

But the side go into the National Trophy semi-final sweating on the fitness of Antonio Robinson.

American point-guard Robinson fell awkwardly following contact from a rebound during the 67-62 victory over Tees Valley Mohawks last Sunday, suffering head, neck, arm and knee injuries.

Although receiving the all clear from the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Antonio is still being treated by the club physio and a decision on his fitness will be made before the game.

Despite complaining of sore knees last weekend, captain Danny Carter will be available for the semi-final clash at Rivermead.

A bout of ‘flu which has hit the camp is also expected to clear before the arrival of Northumbria, who took the points having edged Rockets 76-73 when they last met in the league at Sports Central.

Reading, meanwhile, continue to occupy a top four spot in Division 1 of the English Basketball League following successive wins over Leicester Warriors

(69-66) and the Mohawks.

Coach Manuel Pena Garces, though, was far from impressed with what he saw out on the court, saying: “I am happy we managed to get two more wins and remain in the top four, but we still have a lot of improvements to make to really maximise our potential and compete with the very best.

“We have been working very hard in training and we are seeing improvements, but we need more of this, none more so ahead of this weekend.

“I believe in my players and I am confident we will be up to the task this Sunday and we are all really excited about a potential final for this club.”

Victory for Rockets would secure a sixth final date for the club in this competition.

“They (Northumbria) play an uptempo game and have a lot of perimeter threats, so it’s crucial we match these and exploit any weaknesses they have” added the coach.

“Focusing on ourselves will be the key and playing for forty minutes at both ends will give us a big opportunity to reach the final.”

34 | SPORT

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

‘It’s a huge coup’ says Delaney as Exiles land Edinburgh captain Coman

By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk

MIKE COMAN has become the latest player to sign up with London Irish for the 2016/17 season.

The 28-year-old back row will make the switch to the Exiles in the summer from Edinburgh, where he is currently the captain.

“Having spoken to Tom Coventry, who I know well from New Zealand, and seeing where he wants to take the club, I was happy to sign,” said Coman, who has

penned a three-year deal.

“Everything looks to be in place off the field to ensure the side are successful on it and I look forward to being part of a squad working hard to achieve that.”

He added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Edinburgh and will continue to work hard for the remainder of the season.”

New Zealander Coman joined Edinburgh from the Hawke’s Bay Magpies and has been in the Scottish capital for the past three seasons.

During his time with the club, he has

led the side to a European Challenge Cup final and lifted the 1872 Scottish Cup on two successive occasions.

A former Under-19 international with his homeland, Coman started playing provincial rugby with Canterbury before switching to Hawke’s Bay and the Hurricanes Super Rugby wider training squad, where he made his Super Rugby debut as a substitute for the Crusaders in 2012.

Standing at 6ft 4ins tall and weighing 17st, the player led the Magpies to the ITM Premiership and played two seasons

of Super Rugby with the Hurricanes between 2012 and 2013 in what has been a coveted career to date.

Glenn Delaney, head of rugby operations at Irish, said of the signing: “The addition of Mike to our squad for next season is a huge coup for London Irish. He is a proven leader and will bring plenty of physicality to our forward pack.”

Coman joins fly-half James Marshall, who also plays his rugby with the Hurricanes, in joining the club next season.

LONDON IRISH

Paice: We need to keep season alive LONDON IRISH v WORCESTER WARRIORS AVIVA PREMIERSHIP MADEJSKI STADIUM SUNDAY – 1PM

By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk “WE NEED to keep our season alive” was the message from David Paice ahead of London Irish’s crucial clash with Worcester Warriors on Sunday.

An already tough campaign for the Exiles hit a new low when the side suffered a 38-10 thumping at Sale last Saturday.

Coupled with Newcastle Falcons’ victory over Harlequins the following day, Tom Coventry’s men prop up the Aviva Premiership table once again.

But it is not all doom and gloom just yet, and a victory at Madejski Stadium on Sunday could see the hosts climb above the opposition and to the dizzy heights of 10th.

The Warriors themselves arrive in Berkshire on a somewhat miserable run of form having not won in the league since November.

Yet in order to get the better of Carl Hogg’s men, Paice believes Irish will need to produce a far better performance than the “unacceptable” one witnessed at the AJ Bell Stadium.

“The good thing about rugby is that there is always next week,” said the

David Paice

hooker. “They (Worcester) are a very good team and a tough team – but they are a team we need to beat to keep our season alive and to keep the season going.

“This is an important game for our season and we have got to start winning our games and pick up the bonus points, which we have not been too good at this season.

“Worcester have been a tough team this year and are playing well.

“In Ben Howard and Phil Dowson they

have two players who are playing very well and they have got a great forward pack, so it is going to be a real arm wrestle in the forwards area.

“We need to recognise the dangers, take them on up front and hopefully get the win.”

Paice, one of Irish’s longest serving players, revealed how the squad have since watched back the weekend’s loss in the north west, where a second-half collapse saw Sale comfortably take the points, which made for painful viewing.

“Everyone was pretty disappointed and it was a hard one to take,” added the 32-year-old.

“We wanted to have a good crack at them in the second half, but Sale came out pretty quickly and played the conditions, bad conditions, very well.

“We gifted them a lot of tries and made it easier for them. We made a lot of mistakes which we need to rectify this week.

“We know, as a team, last weekend was not acceptable and not a good performance, but we need to look forward now and to Worcester, which is a huge game for us.

“If we win then we can go up to 10th and then start thinking about chasing the teams in front of us, so there is plenty to be encouraged about.”

Irish can go into the game having recently beaten fellow strugglers

Newcastle, and with just the one defeat suffered in their last five games on home soil, boast encouraging form on familiar territory, too.

Irish were dealt a blow before the trip to Sale with news injured World Cup winner Ben Franks is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines as he needs surgery on a ruptured bicep.

Paice, though, believes the squad will be able to cope during his absence.

He said: “While there was not a whole lot to take from the weekend, the scrum was one area where we did well.

“Sale have a very strong pack, but we won a penalty try and that was because the scrum produced a very big performance.

“Losing Ben, some people thought the set piece and scrum would struggle a bit, but Halani Aulika and Leo Halavatau stood up and did a good job.”

Saracens Exeter Leicester Harlequins Wasps Northampton Sale Sharks Gloucester Bath Worcester Newcastle London Irish

AVIVA PREMIERSHIP P W D L F 10 9 0 1 274 10 8 0 2 267 10 8 0 2 207 10 6 1 3 273 10 5 0 5 217 10 4 0 6 170 9 4 1 4 168 10 4 1 5 201 9 3 0 6 171 10 2 0 8 185 10 2 1 7 154 10 2 0 8 146

A 123 141 182 226 192 157 173 214 171 267 278 309

BP 5 7 1 6 4 6 4 3 5 4 1 0

PTS 41 39 33 32 24 22 22 21 17 12 11 8

Alex Lewington has had surgery on an injured thumb and will be out for five or six weeks

Lewington ruled out for ‘weeks’ with thumb injury THE injury curse has struck once again at London Irish with Alex Lewington now expected to miss the next five or six weeks.

The winger, who has been one of the standout players during a difficult season so far, has needed surgery to help with a thumb problem and is expected to be sidelined until March.

News of his condition comes just days after the club announced Ben Franks will be absent for up to 12 weeks as he too needs surgery having ruptured a bicep tendon.

The pair join Richard Palframan (hamstring), Nic Rouse, Eoin Sheriff, George Skivington and Chris Noakes (all shoulder) and Eoin Griffin on the list of long-term absentees.

Exiles coach Tom Coventry, however, is keen not to dwell on the situation, saying: “Injuries are a big part of the game.

“We have to rely pretty much on the squad we have got that’s been training with us all year.

“We need to get on with it.

“Losing Ben and Alex is a frustration, but we will have to manage without them until we get them back on the field.”

David Sisi and Tom Fowlie are also nursing knee and ankle knocks, but they are only expected to be missing for the short term.

Coventry admits it’s back to the drawing board after Irish are thrashed Sale Sharks 38 London Irish 10

TOM COVENTRY questioned his side’s game management after London Irish were handed a thrashing in the north west.

The coach cut a frustrated figure having watched his side concede six tries at a wet and windy AJ Bell Stadium last Saturday, four of which came in the second half.

With Newcastle Falcons recording a surprise 26-19 victory over Harlequins the following day, the Exiles once again find themselves bottom of the Aviva Premiership table and with work to do ahead of Sunday’s clash with Worcester Warriors.

“We need to look at our game management and the options we are taking,” said Coventry.

“The unforced mistakes we are making and our set piece is letting us down at vital times.

“These are all key in terms of turning our performance around.”

Things had looked encouraging for Irish when they went in at the break trailing the Sharks by just two points.

All 10 points scored by Irish were kicked over by Shane Geraghty

But all the hard work during the first half was to count for nothing as the hosts profited on an Exiles collapse.

The coach added: “I’m not frustrated, just disappointed.

“We worked our way back into that game pretty well after going behind early on.

“I just don’t think we came out with the desire or the grit that was going to get us to the end.

“The boys would have had to roll up their sleeves and play hard in those conditions and we just didn’t do that.”

The fixture started on a bright note for the away side, who took the lead when Shane Geraghty kicked over a penalty in the third minute.

This was won when Conor Gilsenan turned the ball over at the breakdown and put Irish in an attacking position, with Sale penalised for offside.

But the lead was soon wiped out when South African prop Brian Mujati grabbed the first try of the afternoon.

Mike Haley engineered the opportunity, weaving his way past four Irish defenders before Mujati snuck his way over in the corner.

A second try of the game was not long coming, either – and again it went the way of the hosts.

TJ Ioane, a powerful Samoan back-rower, bustled his way to the line, with Danny Cipriani adding the

conversion for a 12-3 lead.

Irish, though, were up for the fight and a fumble by Cipriani resulted in a scrum some five metres out.

Following two dominant sets, referee Greg Garner awarded a penalty try, which Geraghty slotted between the posts and closed the gap.

Whatever was said within the travelling camp during the break failed to have the desired affect, because the game was finished as a contest by the end of the third quarter.

Great work from England international Cipriani created the space needed for Sam James to dab down.

This was quickly followed up by a brace of Nev Edwards tries to leave the Exiles staring at an eighth reverse in 10 league games.

The first came from a burst by James, who off-loaded for the winger to finish well.

Quick hands then allowed Edwards to produce a turn of pace, accelerating down the touch line before dotting down try number five for the Sharks.

A clinical second 40 minutes from Steve Diamond’s men would yield another score too, which was recorded

when Sam Tuitupou breached the whitewash 10 minutes from time.

Coach Coventry made 11 changes to the side which had beaten Agen in the European Challenge Cup seven days earlier, and the coach hinted this may have been a telling factor in his side suffering a heavy defeat.

“This team hasn’t played together for a couple of weeks,” said the New Zealander.

“We have played with different combinations in the European games and we did that for a reason, these guys looked a bit rusty and maybe there was a bit in that.

“We will have to look at that during the week, but we will have to be much better next Sunday, that’s for sure.”

SALE SHARKS: Haley (Arscott 52), Addison, James, Tuitupou, Edwards, Cipriani (Ford 68), Stringer (Cusiter 60), Lewis-Roberts (Harrison 51), Taylor (Briggs 67), Mujati (Cobilas 51), Evans, Ostrikov (Mills 60), TJ Ioane, Seymour (c), Beaumont (Nield 67), LONDON IRISH: Maitland, Ojo, Hearn (Fenby 5-10), Williams (Fenby 48), Tikoirotuma, Geraghty (Brophy Clews 68), McKibbin (Steele 60), Court (Harris 612), Paice (Ellis 75), Aulika (Halavatau 60), Symons (c), Lloyd; Treviranus (McCusker 21), Gilsenan (Sinclair 40), Narraway.

Referee: Greg Garner Attendance: 6,661.

SPORT | 35

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Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

NATIONAL LEAGUE 2 SOUTH

Samir is Rams’ saviour as a vital victory is secured Redingensians Rams 20 Clifton 11

MIKE TEWKESBURY is backing his Redingensians Rams to go on and beat Old Elthamians this weekend after hopes of beating the drop were boosted with victory over Clifton.

The coach can take his side to Kent in confident mood after a run of four successive defeats in National League 2 South was ended with this win at Old Bath Road last Saturday.

“In the circumstances we have done well this season,” said Tewkesbury.

“Injuries have meant we have used 45 players so far.

“However, I’m convinced we are turning the corner and can beat Old Elthamians to avenge the narrow defeat at our place in October.”

Victory over Bristol-based Clifton, however, was not assured until the very last minute, where Samir Kharbouch touched down after Rams had held on to a precious two-point lead for more than half-an-hour.

He rounded off a move down the right flank involving George Drury and Conor Corrigan.

Spike Chandler added the conversion from the touchline and is now just 24 points shy of a thousand in the league.

“There was a hunger about our performance,” added Redingensians captain Dan Barnes.

“We were hungry to hit and hungry to win.

“Everyone was enjoying the battle.”

It was visiting Clifton who put the first points on the board when James Mackay kicked over a penalty in the ninth minute, only for Chandler to reply immediately.

A second kick from the 33-year-old then nudged the hosts in front, which came after Mackay was shown the

to the task at hand, with the defence, and centre Steve Bryant in particular, making crucial tackles before Kharbouch dotted down.

And with Chandler deadly accurate from the tee once again, the nine-point gap, at this stage, was too much of an ask for beaten Clifton.

While an outstanding team performance from Tewkesbury’s men, several players did catch the eye, which included both Ben Henderson and Kharbouch.

Clifton find themselves under the cosh as the hosts mount an attack

REDINGENSIANS: Richardson, Corrigan, Bryant, Barnes, McDermottroe; Chandler, Drury; Weller, Henderson, Baker, Bryson, Morrison, Kharbouch, Vooght, Stapley.

Reps: Ball, Steadman, Guttridge, Nightingale, Brooks.

n OLLY FOXLEY replaces Jamar Richardson at full-back in the only change to the side which beat Clifton.

Scrum-half Jack Hill also makes the squad for the trip to sixth-place Old Elthamians (2.30pm kick-off).

Hill has recovered from the Samir Kharbouch darts in concussion he picked up during the to secure Redingensians 40-14 reverse to Taunton Tigers on victory with a last-gasp January 16. try Pictures: Paul King Rams lost both Ollie Poole and Andy Amor to second-half yellow cards yellow card following a breakdown near when the two sides last met back in the his own line. autumn, where the hosts ran out narrow This gave Rams the impetus, and with 27-24 winners. the fixture on the cusp of half time, No.8 National League 2 South Robbie Stapley beat three defenders to P W D L F A BP PTS score, finishing off some sharp build-up Cambridge 20 17 1 2 636 346 17 87 work.

Old Albanians 20 16 1 3 641 327 19 85 Chandler added the extras.

Bishop’s Stortford 20 14 1 5 559 308 17 75 Clifton’s best spell would arrive after Taunton Titans 19 15 0 4 599 362 14 74 the break, which would coincide with the Redruth 20 14 0 6 463 373 13 69 opposition losing prop James Baker to a Old Elthamians 20 11 2 7 461 445 8 56 Clifton 20 9 1 10 536 477 13 51 shoulder injury.

Barnes 20 8 3 9 456 519 13 51 Hooker David Wheeler followed up Worthing 20 8 1 11 427 443 8 42 a Mackay penalty by going over via a Canterbury 19 8 0 11 406 535 9 41 catch-and-drive try.

Dorking 20 7 0 13 391 527 11 39 With both sides now having periods in Bury St Edmunds 20 7 0 13 402 507 10 38 the ascendency, the contest had become Southend Saxons 20 6 3 11 402 558 6 36 a war of attrition.

Redingensians 20 6 0 14 414 519 11 35 The away side’s backs looked Chinnor 20 5 0 15 440 568 13 33 particularly dangerous, but Rams stuck Launceston 18 0 1 17 222 641 6 8

The hosts front up the challenge to win the loose ball

Clifton are stopped in their tracks

OLD BATH ROAD will host Berkshire Under-20s opening County Championship group fixture against Cornwall on Sunday (kick-off 2pm).

The squad is: Davis (Maidenhead); Corrigan, Green (both REDINGENSIANS), Souter (university), Stileman (Maidenhead); Garrett (Swansea University), Norville, O.Smith (both REDINGENSIANS), Crawshaw (Windsor),

Hitchings helps Crowthorne on way to impressive win SAM HITCHINGS, Stuart Laye and James Huckle all celebrated tries for a Crowthone side whose impressive season continued at Lambrick Way. Alex Stewart’s men not only consolidated fifth spot in the standings, but also closed the gap on the fourth placed opposition to just eight points having racked up a first success against a side in the top four this term.

Crowthorne were beaten 28-17 by third-placed Tadley Tigers the previous weekend, so arrived in Oxfordshire looking to make amends.

But they would find themselves behind when the reliable Chris Stables fired his side in front via a penalty, which took his scoring for the campaign beyond the 150 point mark.

The visitors, though, soon hit back, with Tom Dawkes unlucky not to touch down when receiving the ball from the top of a line-out and making a dart for the line, only to be stopped by a tackle.

But with the strong pack continuing to

Berks, Bucks and Oxon Premier Division P W D L F A BP Gosford All Blacks 14 13 0 1 518 139 13 Milton Keynes 14 13 1 0 547 145 9 Tadley 15 12 0 3 573 211 10 Abingdon 15 10 0 5 423 235 10 Crowthorne 15 8 1 6 240 218 7 Chipping Norton 14 5 2 7 219 357 4 Alchester 14 4 0 10 182 338 8 Slough 14 4 1 9 298 388 4 Risborough 15 6 0 9 158 444 1 Chesham 14 3 0 11 157 356 6 Hungerford 15 4 1 10 217 410 7 Wheatley 15 2 0 13 114 405 5

Stratton (Reading University), Doel (Newbury), Lushington (Reading University), Morrison (REDINGENSIANS – captain), Goodison, Ridout (both BRACKNELL).

Reps: Lynch (Maidenhead), Tichband (REDINGENSIANS), Keofman (Reading), Norman (REDINGENSIANS), Machin (Reading Abbey), Crocker (Henley College), Head, Mahon (both Reading University).

NATIONAL LEAGUE 3

BERKS, BUCKS AND OXON PREMIER DIVISION

Abingdon 8 Crowthorne 18

Rams’ Kieran Ball (No.17) makes the tackle

PTS 65 64 53 50 42 28 24 22 21 18 15 3

penetrate the Abingdon game line, it was not long before Hitchings would cross it.

Doug Charman was off target with the conversion, but his side were now leading the contest 5-3.

The two points would continue to separate the rivals until the 24th minute, where some well-worked phases produced by the backs allowed Robert Tyreman to crash over in the corner and put the hosts in front once again.

The Crows’ cause was not helped when Rhys Carnie pulled up injured.

Because of this, Dawkes moved to full back and Charman from fly-half to No.13.

James Jarvis was the replacement at

scrum half.

But the visiting pack continued to impress, and it was from more good work when Laye barged over on 32 minutes as the advantage changed hands for a third time.

Charman’s luck from the tee remained out, however, with this kick rattling an upright.

The player, though, would produce a well-timed tackle to keep his side in front when Abingdon mounted a spell of pressure prior to the break.

The first session would come to a close with the away side winning a penalty from a scrum, meaning Crowthorne would hold a two-point lead during the interval.

This was stretched eight minutes after the break.

Charman was once again involved, off loading to send Dawkes charging into opposition territory, who would then release for Huckle to finish the move in the corner.

The score, though, was unable to be improved, with Charman once again missing the conversion.

The guests were now seven points up,

but Liam Dahle soon threatened to cut the deficit.

His run for the line, was ended by a super tackle from Dawkes, who hauled down the Abingdon full back.

The two sides continued to have a good go at one another as the minutes passed by, but it was the awarding of a penalty to the visitors which was to put the result beyond any doubt.

And it was that man Charman who would finally seal the win, impressively clearing the posts from distance and nudging the scoreline to 18-8.

The challenge for Crowthorne now was to go on and secure the bonus point.

A combination of errors and some determined rearguard action meant Stewart’s side would have to settle for just the four points from what was an eighth victory in 10 games, Nonetheless, this was still an impressive showing by the Crows, who now march on to a clash with midtable Alchester at the New Nest on February 13.

They do not have a scheduled game on Saturday.

Bracknell are hit by a washout BRACKNELL’S clash with Colchester at Lily Hill Park last Saturday was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

The fixtures involving the 2s, 3s and 4s were also hit by the weather.

The first-team game has now been rescheduled to take place this Saturday, with a 2.15pm kick-off.

Because of results elsewhere, Bracknell have dropped a place in the standings to 11th.

The visitors currently sit ninth, but a home win would see the two opponents swap places in the standings.

National League 3 London and South East P W D L F A BP L.I Wild Geese 18 15 2 1 575 304 12 Tonbridge Juddian 18 14 1 3 569 247 15 Westcombe Park 18 14 0 4 511 268 11 East Grinstead 18 13 1 4 476 240 12 Hertford 18 12 0 6 513 337 10 Guernsey 18 12 0 6 482 371 10 Shelford 18 12 0 6 419 336 10 Wimbledon 18 7 0 11 408 399 6 Colchester 17 7 0 10 324 400 4 Chichester 18 6 0 12 341 443 8 Bracknell 17 6 0 11 332 461 8 Westcliff 18 3 0 15 292 580 6 Gravesend 18 2 0 16 269 548 5 Eton Manor 18 0 0 18 188 765 4

PTS 76 68 67 66 58 58 58 34 32 32 32 18 13 4

36 | SPORT

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THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

League leaders thwart late Spearing strike

ICE HOCKEY

Wildcats pounce on Bees’ mistakes Bracknell Bees 2 Swindon Wildcats 3 A BRACE of goals from Aaron Nell saw Swindon leave the Hive with the points for a second successive Sunday night.

The Wildcats’ player-coach, who bagged a hat-trick to help the visitors ran out 7-4 winners when the M4 rivals clashed the weekend before, found the net twice within the space of 90 second-period seconds.

Tomas Malasinski had opened the scoring on the power play late in the first stanza.

Vanya Antonov hit an equaliser for Bees after the first interval and a Carl Thompson effort set up a tense finish, but the hosts were unable to avoid a fourth straight loss – and 22nd reverse in their last 23 games.

“We played well and I thought we reached our potential,” said player-coach Lukas Smital afterwards.

“Two major mistakes in the second (period) cost us really. We did address that and in the third we executed exactly what we were talking about in the locker room.

“We were right on them, but that little lucky bounce towards the end was missing.

“I know we lost, but I cannot fault anybody’s effort.

“Playing with a bunch of teenagers and one import – I cannot ask for more from them.”

Smital would once again have to watch on from the bench as he continued his recovery from a broken finger.

The hosts were also without fellow Czech Milan Kostourek, who left the club earlier in the week, while Alex Barker joined Lewis Turner on the injury list.

Harvey Hind-Pitcher and Josh Martin were drafted in from the Bracknell Hornets to help fill the gaps.

Yet the early indications looked good for the youthful-looking hosts, who saw Tom Relf and Thompson force Wildcats netminder Jordan Hedley into some early saves.

The contest was some seven minutes old before Swindon saw a sight of goal, but Alex Mettam was to pluck a Steve Whitfield attempt out of the air before denying Nell from close range.

A first penalty of the night was conceded by Scott Spearing, who was pulled back for slashing.

The call, however, angered Nell, and an angry confrontation between the two was to follow. This resulted in Spearing racking up 14 minutes in the bin for attempted spear, while Nell was to get off lightly and hit with just an embellishment minor.

Bees would kill off the first two minutes, but hanging on for an addition 120 seconds proved too much of an ask, and it was here where Malasinski provided the telling touch to tip home a Neil Liddiard drive for a 1-0 lead.

The ironwork would prevent Bracknell from conceding a second minute after the interval, with Jonas Hoog ringing an

Basingstoke Bison 3 Bracknell Bees 1

Josh Smith is caught in brawl that errupted after a cheap shot from Swindon’s Adam Harding Pictures: Bob Swann

Netminder Alex Mettam blocks a shot

Carl Thompson ready for action.

JOIN US AT THE HIVE Games played at John Nike Leisure Complex, Bracknell

upright with a quick-wrist effort.

And the hosts would use the left off to their advantage, as soon after going close from a Josh Tetlow pass, Antonov was levelling up the scores.

Visibly lifted by the equaliser, Bees went on the offensive once again, yet the air of anticipation which had now swept across the Hive was quickly blown away

by Nell.

Having taught the opposition a lesson in finishing just seven days earlier, the forward was at it again, ramming home a Malasinski pass to regain the lead.

Then, having again received the puck from the same player, Nell pinged another strike at goal over the shoulder of Mettam and into the top shelf.

The chances continued to arrive for both sides in the third session, with Carlo Finucci causing a goalmouth scramble and Thompson stinging the palms of Hedley once more.

A cheap shot from Adam Harding on Martin, however, would lead to another flash point and a coming together of players.

Once order was restored, Harding was handed 2+10 for a check from behind, while Martin was ordered by referee Tim Pickett to sit out two minutes for roughing.

The final six minutes proved costly for Bracknell when they last lined up against

the Wildcats, with the guests firing in three uncontested goals to take the win – and they were fortunate not to ship in a fourth when Nell struck a post.

There was to be another late twist on this occasion, and it would provide Bees with a lifeline; Thompson turned home a loose puck after Relf had fired wide and the lead was down to just the one goal.

A time out was promptly called by the home side and Mettam was pulled for the additional skater, but the age-old tactic would reap no rewards on this occasion.

Despite one last big push, it was the Swindon shift and Hedley which held out to rack up an 18th win of the season.

Bees have a home double header this weekend, hosting Milton Keynes Lightning on Saturday before Manchester Phoenix are the visitors on Sunday.

Both games start at 6pm.

Additional reporting by John Slater.

English Premier Ice Hockey League P W OW OL L F Basingstoke 40 24 5 2 9 150 Milton Keynes 42 20 5 5 12 147 Peterborough 39 21 3 6 9 149 Guildford 40 16 8 3 13 141 Swindon 39 18 6 3 12 138 Telford 39 21 2 1 15 151 Sheffield 39 16 4 4 15 144 Manchester 38 11 2 7 18 119 Hull 40 5 3 5 27 91 Bracknell 40 8 0 2 30 118

THIS SATURDAY – FEBRUARY 6

BRACKNELL BEES v MK Lightning Face off 6pm

A 95 118 100 128 128 109 162 146 188 174

Pts 60 55 54 51 51 47 44 33 21 18

A LATE Scott Spearing strike was cancelled out by Tomas Karpov as Bees were beaten by local rivals and league leaders Basingstoke Bison, writes JOHN SLATER. The forward managed to find a way past Jon Baston in the hosts’ goal seven minutes from time, cutting the deficit after first-period efforts from Rene Jarolin and former Bee Shaun Thompson had the opposition boasting a 2-0 lead.

Try as they might, Bracknell pushed hard for an equaliser, only for Karpov to wrap up the victory late on.

With player-coach Lukas Smital still nursing a broken finger, Lewis Turner not yet fully recovered from concussion and Brandon Miles, Harvey Hind-Pitcher and Josh Martin away with the Hornets, the visitors were once again short benched.

And they would find themselves a goal behind when Daniel Lackey and Stuart Mogg combined to set up Jarolin to open the scoring.

Losing Carl Graham to an interference minor would result in Bison doubling the advantage on the 15th minute mark through a power play goal.

Lighting the lamp was Thompson, who deflected the puck past netminder Alex Mettam.

The sides would trade power plays either side of the interval, but both were killed off.

Matt Foord (hooking) and Josh Tetlow (elbows) would also take a seat in the penalty box within five minutes of each other, but those left out on the ice stood firm.

The same happened when defenceman Jan Bendik was pulled up for an infringement, with Basingstoke unable to capitalise meaning the stanza would finish as a goalless one.

Mettam was the busier of the two ‘keepers at the beginning of the third period, producing a number of saves to keep the visitors in the game.

Foord, for an interference, and Bison’s Ciaran Long both fell into penalty trouble, but the contest remained an open affair.

But when James Galazzi set up fellow forward Spearing (pictured, inset), it was game on.

Bees duly surged men forward as they looked to tie up the scoring, yet for all their endeavour, it was the home side who were celebrating next.

Long and Thompson provided the assists as Karpov settled the contest – but tempers were to flare up just seconds later when Spearing clashed with a player he used to line up alongside, Alan Lack.

The pair were both hit with roughing minors.

Mettam was sacrificed for the extra skater in the dying stages, but victory belonged to Basingstoke.

THIS SUNDAY – FEBRUARY 7

BRACKNELL BEES v Manchester Phoenix Face off 6pm

Box office: 01344 789000 bracknellbees.co.uk

Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

CHAMPIONSHIP

PREVIEW

It’s the Pits for McCleary and Reading after late loss Ipswich Town 2 Reading 1

GARATH McCLEARY admitted it was a hard one to take after Reading slipped to a last-gasp defeat at Portman Road.

The winger, recently back from a hamstring injury, stepped up off the bench to hit an equaliser from the penalty spot after Hal Robson-Kanu was upended in the penalty box by Cole Skuse.

This had cancelled out Ryan Fraser’s 57th-minute opener for the Tractor Boys, who then won it when Pitman settled the contest with just seconds of normal time remaining.

“Straight after a game when you have just lost, it is hard to take,” said Royals winger McCleary (pictured) “I think all the players will be down because we haven’t won, or at least got a point.

“But as soon as we get back onto the training field, it’s on to the next one. We go into every game trying to win.

“We played well in spells, but unfortunately we didn’t get three points, or even one.

“It’s a tough pill to take at the moment.

“Ipswich aren’t in the top six for no reason – they are a good team.

“But we go again Saturday – we’ve got to try to change our fortunes.”

Defeat in Suffolk means Reading have not tasted victory on the road since a 2-1 triumph up at Burnley on September 26.

They have also only picked up two points on their travels since that trip to Turf Moor, which was some 10 away games ago in all competitions.

There was little for the 200-plus supporters who had headed across to East Anglia to cheer about either during a first half which provided little entertainment.

Although Matej Vydra did force Town

SPORT | 37

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‘keeper Bartosz Bialkowski into a save, while Robson-Kanu saw a cross diverted away for a corner following a burst down the right.

The wretched run away from Madejski Stadium, however, looked set to continue when Fraser broke the deadlock just before the hour mark.

Receiving the ball from a cut back, the midfielder took a touch before unleashing a shot which was to beat Ali Al Habsi in the visitors goal via a deflection.

McCleary was introduced to the action soon after, and his impact was almost immediate with the pacy winger leading a counter attack which was ended when the centre was cut out by an opponent.

But when Robson-Kanu went to ground in the area, the replacement stepped up and hammered the resulting spot kick home and draw Royals level.

McCleary was then just a fraction shy of meeting a dinked cross from Yann Kermorgant, who was handed his first start since completing a switch from Bournemouth, as Reading pushed for a winner.

However, the point their performance duly deserved was cruelly snatched away from Reading when replacement Luke Varney chased down a ball out on the left before crossing for another substitute, Pitman, to slide in and secure Town a 16th successive win on home soil on a Tuesday night.

IPSWICH TOWN: Bialkowski, Knudsen, Chambers (c), Smith, Berra, Maitland-Niles (Bru 46), Skuse, Fraser, Hyam (Pitman 82), Sears, Murphy (Varney 86).

Subs not used: Henly, Coke, Foley, Digby Goals: Fraser 57, Pitman 89.

READING: Al Habsi, Gunter, Obita, Ferdinand, Cooper, Norwood (c), Williams, Quinn (McCleary 61), Robson-Kanu, Kermorgant, Vydra.

Suns not used: Bond, Taylor, McShane, Hector, Piazon, John.

Goal: McCleary 69.

Referee: Tim Robinson

Forget away-day woes, lets tame Wolves – McDermott READING v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP MADEJSKI STADIUM SATURDAY – 3PM

George Evans, meanwhile, will need to be assessed but Aaron Tshibola is definitely out.

One player expected to make his return to Madejski Stadium, however, is Adam Le Fondre, as the former fans favourite is now plying his trade with Wolves.

“He is a top-class finisher and what a great bloke,” said McDermott, who brought the striker to the club from Rotherham United in 2011.

By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk “LET’S go and do our stuff against Wolves” was the message from Brian McDermott as Reading look to secure a first league win in five games.

Having not tasted victory in the Championship since a 1-0 success over Bristol City on January 2 has seen Royals drop to 16th in the standings and now sit 13 points off the play-offs.

And with a tough run on the road continuing with the last-minute 2-1 reverse at Ipswich Town on Tuesday night, some may feel the pressure is now on to start picking up more points at Madejski Stadium, where they are unbeaten in four games.

McDermott, though, does not feel that is the case, saying: “I try to take the emotion out of a result – win, lose or draw.

“The emotion is a problem because mentality is a lot in football, so if you are concerned about a losing to a last minute goal against Ipswich or scoring a last minute goal against Bristol City, obviously against Bristol City you win and everyone is delighted, euphoric and then miserable, I try to be in the middle of that: euphoric

and miserable – bordering on miserable!

“So if you can try and take the emotions out of the results then you are in a much better place, so no it doesn’t (add to the pressure) because it is a one-off game at Madejski Stadium, and that is the only thing I am concentrating on.

“Let’s do our stuff against Wolves.

Whatever the result is, we have then got another game the following weekend.

“Wolves is the only thing on my mind and trying to get that right result.”

McDermott went on to say how he is not yet sure whether new signing Denis Rakels will be ready to make his debut against Kenny Jackett’s side, as he is still lacking some match fitness.

Hull Middlesbrough Burnley Derby Brighton Ipswich Sheff Wed Birmingham Cardiff Brentford Nottm Forest Wolves QPR Preston Leeds Reading Huddersfield Blackburn Fulham MK Dons Rotherham Bristol City Charlton Bolton

Sky Bet Championship P W D L 28 17 5 6 27 17 4 6 29 14 10 5 29 13 11 5 28 13 11 4 29 13 9 7 29 12 11 6 29 13 8 8 29 11 11 7 29 11 7 11 29 9 12 8 29 10 9 10 29 8 12 9 29 8 12 9 29 8 12 9 29 9 8 12 29 8 8 13 27 6 12 9 28 6 10 12 28 7 5 16 29 7 4 18 29 5 10 14 29 5 9 15 29 3 12 14

F 45 37 47 39 34 39 43 37 38 42 30 39 35 25 29 33 39 24 43 23 35 24 26 26

A 18 14 26 25 28 36 32 28 33 41 25 40 35 27 33 33 42 24 48 41 53 47 55 48

Pts 56 55 52 50 50 48 47 47 44 40 39 39 36 36 36 35 32 30 28 26 25 25 24 21

ACADEMY

Andresson and Barrett secure the U18s a top-four finish READING Under-18s remain hot on the heels of Premier League South leaders Chelsea after scoring an impressive 2-0 victory over the Blues last Saturday.

Axel Andresson and captain Josh Barrett got the goals which moved Royals to within three points of their rivals with two games left to play.

Victory also ensured David Dodds’ youngsters of a top-four finish in the division, meaning they will take on the best teams from the North section in the second half of the season.

Attentions now turn to the FA Youth Cup and a fifth-round tie with Wolves at Molineux tonight (Friday).

Kick-off is 7pm.

n BROOKS LENNON and Harry Wilson got the goals which saw Liverpool topple Reading in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League.

The 2-0 loss at the Lookers Vauxhall Stadium leaves Royals sixth in the standings.

They host Leicester City at Hogwood Park on Monday. Kick-off is 2pm.

FA CUP

Brian’s building work continues as magic Matej fires Royals into round five Reading 4 Walsall 0

BRIAN McDERMOTT admitted he is “trying to build something special” at Reading after watching his charges dispose of Walsall to book their spot in round five of the FA Cup, writes LEWIS RUDD. It turned out to be a comfortable victory for Royals in the end, as a two-goal salvo from Matej Vydra would help see off the high-flying Saddlers at Madejski Stadium.

Hal Robson-Kanu opened the scoring and Danny Williams was also on target for the hosts, whose reward for victory is a home tie with either West Bromwich Albion or Peterborough United in the next round.

“We did our work on them,” said McDermott of Walsall, who arrived in Berkshire sitting third in League One and having lost just once in the previous 12 outings.

“I have seen them twice previously and obviously we did our work in leading up to it all week, so we knew what they were all about.

“I hope they get promoted this season.

Matej Vydra took his scoring this season’s FA Cup to six on Saturday Picture: Vivienne Johnson

“They are a good club and have got some real good quality and play some good football.

“But the most important thing is to get through and we score four quality goals and might have had a few more but we are absolutely delighted.

“The game was really difficult and the conditions were tough, so we are

delighted to get through.”

Royals broke the deadlock on 37 minutes when, from a throw in, Robson-Kanu rolled his marked before driving a shot across Neil Etheridge in the Walsall goal and into the corner.

It was 2-0 minutes later.

And it was a well-worked goal too, with substitute Michael Hector feeding the ball to Williams, who slipped in Stephen Quinn on the overlap.

Darting into the box, the winger squared for Vydra to produce the telling touch from a yard out.

Romaine Sawyers for the visitors and Reading’s Oliver Norwood saw respective strikes hit the crossbar after the break, but it was Williams who put McDermott’s charges out of reach 15 minutes from time.

Capitalising on a mistake, the midfielder ran in from some 40 yards before stroking the ball between the legs of Etheridge, who was clattered by a team-mate during the build-up and had to be stretchered off with a badly cut knee.

Vydra would have the ball in the net once again soon after, only to be deemed offside – but the on-loan striker would

take his impressive tally in this year’s competition to six when nodding home an inviting Chris Gunter cross on 89 minutes.

Victory means hopes of emulating the historic run which took Reading to an FA Cup semi-final against Arsenal last season remain, but McDermott was keen to share his admiration for the competition, saying: “Having 40,000 fans at Wembley, what a great day for the supporters, so what is not to love?

“We got to a quarter-final and were 2-0 up against Aston Villa (in 2010) – I actually still remember that game, we lost 4-2 – it is a great competition.

“You have got the excitement now of looking ahead and it keeps the season going.

“We are trying to get some momentum going.”

He added: “We are trying to build something special and that takes time.

“For me, that is not about being reactionary after one result: a win, defeat or a draw, it is about building something special and we are trying to build something special here again.

“We had things here in the past. We had some really special times and that is

what we are trying to create.”

While welcoming back Paul McShane, Hector and Quinn to the fold having all recovered from recent injuries, McDermott and Royals suffered a blow when another player back from the treatment table, Aaron Tshibola, broke down with another problem just 10 minutes into his comeback.

The young midfielder appeared to suffer a hamstring problem, with his boss adding: “He is such a good player and such a good boy, he is obviously gutted.

“We think it is another part of his hamstring, but that is part of football.

“But we will get him back, and he will be stronger when he comes back.”

READING: Al-Habsi, Gunter, Norwood (c), Vydra, Robson-Kanu, Obita, Ferdinand (McShane 68), Tshibola (Hector 10), Quinn (John 79), Williams, Cooper.

Goals: Robson-Kanu (37), Vydra (40, 89), Williams (75).

Subs not used: Bond, Taylor, Piazon, Cox. WALSALL: Etheridge (MacGillivray 78), Demetriou, Taylor, O’Connor, Downing, Chambers (c) (Cook 64), Mantom, Bradshaw, Sawyers, Forde, Henry.

Subs not used: Lalkovic, Preston, Flanagan, Morris, Kinsella.

Referee: Peter Bankes.

Attendance: 13,367.

38 | SPORT

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THAMES VALLEY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Shane is simply four-some

came through Ricky Thompson.

This thumping victory moved prolific County top of the table, where they sit a point clear of Burghfield.

BERKS COUNTY FC ROVERS also kept up their promotion aspirations with a convincing 3-0 win on the road at Goring United Reserves.

All three goals were plundered by Richard Cumner.

The three points took Rovers above The Hop Leaf and up to second in Division 5.

HURST, meanwhile, dropped to fifth following a 6-3 reverse at leaders TDC Knights.

Adam Frewin, twice, and Peter Jones found the back of the net for Hurst, but a Kobby Duodu treble, Simeon Edwards brace and Lyndon Vandenburg strike ensured the Knights of victory.

They have been replaced in fourth by SONNING SPORTS, who saw Lee Dean and Martin Peters fire the side to a 2-1 win at Taplow, who grabbed a goal through Billy at the John Nike Stadium, where BERKS Gray.

COUNTY RESERVES walloped FC Reading Cup round-up Dons 14-1.

SAM GUZE hit a second-half hat-trick to Star of the show was Connor Banks, help Woodley United Reserves set up a who bagged a double hat-trick.

Berks and Bucks Junior Cup quarter-final There was a trio of goals too for date with Reading YMCA Rapids.

Tiernan Mines and two more for United were 3-0 winners over substitute Brandon Blair.

Mortimer Reserves.

Shaun Andrews, Anton Hill and Reading Sunday Football League Samuel Vine added to the rout.

SAM CIALIS put Woodley United ahead The solitary reply from the Dons during their Premier Division clash with County.

COMBINED COUNTIES LEAGUE Set up by James Timbers, Cialis finished with a cool finish.

Bottom side County, however, hit back to Combined Counties League Division 1 EVERSLEY and California will be hoping to resume their secure a vital 2-1 victory.

P W D L F A Pts promotion push when Banstead Athletic are the visitors Results – Sunday January 31 CB Hounslow Utd 20 15 3 2 45 15 48 DIVISION 2: WS Hobnob 1 Arborfield 2 to Fox Lane on Saturday.

Worcester Park 20 13 4 3 50 20 43 Neville Roche’s men, who have Hellenic Division 1 East Eversley & Calif 20 14 1 5 58 31 43 P W D L F A Pts won their last two league games Abbey Rangers 21 12 3 6 42 26 39 Penn & Tylers Green 15 11 3 1 56 9 36 against Sheerwater and Staines Bedfont & Feltham 17 12 2 3 47 22 38 Bicester Town 16 11 3 2 46 23 36 Lammas, were due to play Cobham 22 10 3 9 45 47 33 Henley Town 16 10 3 3 49 23 33 struggling Farliegh Rovers at the Frimley Green 19 9 2 8 31 28 29 Headington Amateur’s 19 9 4 6 42 23 31 Dorking 19 9 1 9 33 29 28 weekend.

Finchampstead 17 8 5 4 35 18 29 Staines Lammas 21 9 1 11 43 40 28 The game, like many others Holyport 15 7 4 4 32 27 25 Banstead Athletic 16 7 4 5 35 30 25 Chinnor 14 7 2 5 32 22 23 across the borough, was called off Ash United 19 6 4 9 38 41 22 Rayners Lane 15 5 5 5 30 23 20 due to a waterlogged pitch.

Sandhurst Town 19 6 3 10 36 57 21 Didcot Town Res’ 16 5 2 9 36 43 17 Eversley sit third in Combined Counties Division 1, Epsom Athletic 16 4 2 10 27 46 14 Chalfont Wasps 10 4 2 4 16 26 14 with only goals scored keeping them behind Worcester Dorking Wand Res 18 3 4 11 19 36 13 Wantage Town Res’ 15 3 2 10 21 40 11 Park in second place.

Sheerwater 18 4 1 13 29 47 13 Old Woodstock Town 13 3 0 10 12 40 9 The two sides are due to meet on Saturday, February South Park Reserves16 3 1 12 19 43 10 Reading Town 17 2 3 12 20 74 9 Woodley United 16 2 2 12 13 49 8 Farleigh Rovers 17 3 1 13 17 56 10 13. The game with Banstead kicks off at 3pm.

SHANE MASKELL notched four times for a Winnersh Rangers side which moved up to second in the Division 1 table after thrashing AFC Corinthians 6-1.

Maskell was joined on the scoresheet at Goosecroft Lane by Kenny Evans and Ryan Kingsbeer.

Victory, a sixth of the season, moved Rangers to within four points of leaders Westwood United, although the table toppers have played three fewer games.

Brodie Davies struck twice and Clive Akem-Che was also on target as SONNING pushed promotion-chasing Eldon Celtic hard in Division 2.

But through goals from Omar Carrington, Luke Cox, Sheldon Mayers-Best and Sam Whitlock, visiting Eldon went on to secure a 4-3 win and leave the villagers four points adrift at the foot of the standings.

An absorbing contest at Woodford Park saw WOODLEY UNITED A outscore WARGRAVE RESERVES by the odd goal in five to consolidate fourth spot in Division 3.

Tom Barratt topped the scoring charts for home side United with a hat-trick.

Lewis Doe and Samuel Mallows also added their names to the scoresheet.

Daniel Tegg would hit all four goals for Wargrave, but his impressive tally would prove to be nothing more than consolation.

Arguably the result of the weekend was recorded in Division 4 and witnessed

Ryan Kingsbeer was on target for Winnersh

An Athletic challenge awaits Eversley

YOUTH FOOTBALL

Full-of-beans Comets U16s are up for the (Costa) cup!

A NEW sponsorship deal has caused quite a stir among the Twyford Comets Under-16s.

This is because the village branch of Costa Coffee has agreed to provide the team with financial support for the remainder of this season and the whole of the 2016/17 campaign.

“As one supporter joked, that makes us the very first official holders of the Costa Coffee Cup,” said manager Kevin O’Donnell.

“Seriously, the backing of Costa, which was arranged through the Twyford Village Partnership, is a huge boost for the team, which will now carry its name on the front of the players’ shirts.

“We are very grateful they have decided to support us as part of their community activities in Twyford.”

Costa opened its doors in High Street last August, and Carmen Mattana, from the franchise, added: “We have already supported local charities in the village and we are very happy to give our backing to the Comets team.

“We wish them every success.”

Twyford Comets Under-16s are to be sponsored by the village’s branch of Costa Coffee for the remainer of this season and the 2016/17 campaign Right (L-R): Kevin O’Donnell, coach Richard Wilson, captain Jacob Wilson, Vlad Karpendi and Alex Tsantekon from Costa.

THEWOKINGHAMPAPER Friday, February 5, 2016

HELLENIC PREMIER DIVISION

Ferdinand and Johnson fire Binfield to derby-day win Liam Ferdinand fires Binfield into a 2-0 lead at Larges Lane, as the two managers meet, below Pictures: Colin Byers

Bracknell Town 2 Binfield 3

LIAM FERDINAND and Jemel Johnson added to a Callum Whitty own goal as Binfield secured the points and bragging rights from an absorbing local derby at Larges Lane on Friday night.

The Moles, playing their first competitive game since Boxing Day, threatened to run up a cricket score having raced into a 3-0 lead inside the first 21 minutes.

Yet they were left hanging on after Town, now managed by former Binfield boss Mark Tallentire, stormed back into the contest through a Kensley Maloney strike and Nathan Silver error. “(It was) one of those evenings when you are immensely proud of your players, every single one of them was top drawer,” said manager Roger Herridge. “(A) great three points. The players worked tirelessly and stuck together in testing conditions.”

Herridge was without both James Knight and Alex Luis, who were sitting out respective suspensions, but he did welcome back Alex Walton, who partnered brother Michael in the heart of defence.

And with a crowd of 345 watching on, the visitors made the perfect start.

Former Binfield mainstay Whitty failed to hear the call from Town ‘keeper Garry Aulsberry, with the two only able to watch on as the former’s header rolled into an empty net.

Things would get even better for the side too on 15 minutes, when Chris Dean made a burst through the middle before sending Ferdinand on his way, with the striker confidently beating Aulsberry for a 2-0 lead.

This came shortly after Josh Howell saw one strike cleared off the line before he was twice denied by the Bracknell shot-stopper.

The joy of being two goals to the good would soon turn to ecstasy, for the away supporters when Ferdinand pinged forward a pass for Johnson to chase down.

He duly did this and then fired past Aulsberry to put Binfield in complete control of this fixture at 3-0.

Aaron Rowland put another chance over the bar and Ferdinand scraped the outside of the post as the away side remained in the ascendency.

But when another player to have

Town’s Seb Bowerman (left) goes on the attack

represented the two rivals, Seb Bowerman, saw a shot blocked by Michael Walton, it was game on as Maloney was on hand to place the rebound in the corner.

Having then cut inside, Town playmaker Bowerman forced Silver into a save as the hosts finished the half strongly.

The second half became more of a battle, although Binfield were to lose Dean to a groin strain on the hour mark, with Mark Jordan his replacement.

Interestingly, the players in the Town line-up had racked up more than 1,300 combined appearances for the away side, so there was obviously plenty at stake.

And the contest was to hot up once more when Moles ‘keeper Silver, out to make a routine catch from a high ball, went on to spill it into his own net.

A few nervy minutes aside, the mistake was unable to provide the catalyst needed for Bracknell to complete the comeback.

Although a solid display at the back also kept the hosts at bay.

A chance to wrap up the result, however, would fall to substitute Khalid Senussi – another familiar to both sides – but the midfielder put too much leverage on the attempt, which was no trouble for Aulsberry.

BINFIELD: Silver, O’Connell, Gibbs, A.Walton, M.Walton, Withers, Howell, Rowland (Jerome 86), Ferdinand, Johnson (Senussi 78), Dean (Jordan 58).

Subs not used: Carlisle, Vaughan.

Hellenic Premier Division P W D L F A Pts Thatcham Town 25 19 4 2 73 29 61 Flackwell Heath 25 19 2 4 73 34 59 Ascot United 28 16 7 5 53 28 55 Kidlington 22 16 3 3 63 21 51 Highworth Town 23 16 2 5 66 20 50 Longlevens AFC 25 14 2 9 43 37 44 Binfield 24 12 4 8 45 37 40 Highmoor-Ibis 27 12 3 12 44 42 39 Thame United 24 12 3 9 32 30 39 Brimscombe & Thr 21 11 3 7 37 30 36 Royal Wootton Bass 26 11 2 13 38 58 35 Ardley United 27 10 2 15 48 59 32 Oxford City Nomads 25 9 4 12 39 48 31 Brackley Town Saints 29 9 3 17 54 75 30 Lydney Town 23 6 7 10 34 43 25 Milton United 30 6 7 17 37 61 25 Tuffley Rovers 22 6 5 11 37 43 23 Abingdon United 31 6 3 22 38 89 21 Bracknell Town 22 4 5 13 32 48 17 Wokingham 27 2 3 22 27 81 9

Friday, February 5, 2016 THEWOKINGHAMPAPER

SPORT | 39

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READING SENIOR CUP

SUPPLEMENTARY CUP

It’s not all-White on the night, but fearless Finch do Laugharne proud

James provides the Sumas some Payne relief Letcombe 1 Wokingham and Emmbrook 2

Highmoor Ibis 2 Finchampstead 1

he makes a brilliant save.

“We are disappointed because we have come here and given it a real good go just

By LEWIS RUDD to come up short.” lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk Laugharne, however, saw his charges JON LAUGHARNE hopes his Finchampstead get off to a terrible start, watching on as side “surprised a few people” with the White went on a run down the right wing spirited performance they produced at from kick off, where his cross-cum-shot flew over Tom Bryant in the Finch goal Palmer Park on Monday night. and into the back of the net.

But it would prove to be in vain as a Yet an away side brace of goals from missing several Anthony White – the first-team first of which arrived regulars through after just 18 seconds unavailability or – saw Hellenic work commitments Premier League side were soon creating Ibis progress to the chances to level up next round of the the scores.

Reading Senior Cup. Captain Adam Daniel Blatchford Barnard, though, would pull a goal was wide with an back late on for ambitious strike Finch, but the from distance before visitors were unable another opportunity to go on and grab popped up for Gavin an equaliser the Rolls when Blatchford manager felt their challenged Highmoor efforts deserved. ‘keeper Ashley East “They (Highmoor) Matt Wright closes down an opponent for a loose ball. are quality, make The midfielder, no mistake about however, was deemed to have impeded it, whatever team they put out,” said his opponent and the play was called Laugharne. back for a foul.

“But we feel disappointed we haven’t Another chance at the far post would got something. result in Ibis defender Danny Lingwood “We have had a couple of shots cleared having to hook the ball from under his off the line in the first half and if some own crossbar and out for a corner. of the decisions go our way it could have Darren Barton then looked to have tied been different.

“We come out in the second half and up the scoring from a similar position, the goalkeeper makes a mistake and you only for Lingwood to divert the ball out can’t do anything about it, but before that for another corner via his back.

Danny Blatchford (left) was on target for Finchampstead at Palmer Park Pictures: Paul King

The one goal would continue to separate the sides going in at the break, but it was a stunning save by Bryant which denied White from doubling the advantage shortly after the restart.

Breaking on the counter and with the visitors’ defence stretched, the striker skipped past a challenge as he strolled into the box and then unleashed his shot – only to see Bryant at full stretch deny him from point-blank range.

But the shot-stopper was to gift the hosts a second goal midway through the half.

In trying to make a routine clearance from a back pass, Bryant scuffed his kick straight to an unmarked White, who would dash past the ‘keeper and stroke the ball into an empty net.

Before this, Blatchford had stung the hands of East with a drive from the edge of the box, but Mitchell Parker was unlucky not to make it 3-0 with a half volley from the edge of the box.

But it was game on when a useful ball over the top found Blatchford in an inside left position, with the player striding into the penalty area, where he produced a clinical finish – firing across East and into the corner.

Blatchford later saw a free-kick saved, while White went close to grabbing the hat-trick, but was over with a difficult

chance when meeting a cross from the right.

Ibis also saw strong appeals for a penalty waved away when Richard Witt appeared to be bundled over just inside the box, with the referee instead awarded a free-kick, which was put over the bar.

The tie was now in stoppage time, and it was here where only a matter of millimetres denied Finch an extra 30 minutes of play.

In meeting a corner swung over from the left, Richard Evans saw his header at the near post have East beaten, but the ball dropped on top of the net.

“Where we were it looked like it was in, added Laugharne.

“These are small margins aren’t they?

“A lot of the lads playing for us tonight haven’t played for a long time, but they have done really well.

“I think we have surprised a few people today.” n FINCH saw their Hellenic Division 1 clash at Penn and Tylers Green last Saturday postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

The club were scheduled to play Chinnor tomorrow, but this game has also been called off due to an issue with the Oxfordshire club’s ground.

The game has been rearranged for Tuesday, March 15.

BERKS AND BUCKS SENIOR TROPHY

Hero Howell sets up semi-final date for magic Moles Ascot United 1 Binfield 3

JOSH HOWELL fired Binfield to victory at the Racecourse Ground and a place in the semi-finals of the Berks and Bucks Senior Trophy.

For the winger scored twice on Tuesday night to help the away side dispose of Hellenic Premier Division and local rivals Ascot United.

Liam Ferdinand was also on target as the Moles secured a second successive local derby success in the space of four days, having seen off Bracknell Town in a five-goal thriller on Friday evening.

Binfield boss Roger Herridge was able to call upon the services of captain Alex Luis and James Knight, who had completed recent suspensions, while Jack Broome was welcomed back to the squad and took a place on the bench.

And Herridge would watch on as his charges started the game in full throttle, with Ferdinand playing Jemel Johnson through on goal, but the fellow forward was wide of a post with his strike from 20 yards.

But when the roles reversed on 12

Josh Howell struck in both halves to help set up Binfield a semi-final date with Flackwell Heath Picture: Colin Byers

minutes, the deadlock was broken.

Just four minutes later and the visitors were two goals to the good.

Breaking in numbers would see Howell net with aplomb from the edge of the box.

Johnson again provided the assist.

There was to be no let up in the action either, with high-flying United unable to net from two free headers, while Ascot ‘keeper Chris Grace would twice deny Johnson up the other end.

Binfield continued to threaten after the break, with set-piece specialist Jack Gibbs causing problems from two early corners.

Ascot have been impressive on home soil this season, so it would come as no surprise when they started cranking up the pressure.

Some opponents have been hit for big scores at the Racecourse this season, but the Moles were not to join that list of clubs, as a good shape and solid back line kept the hosts at bay.

The rearguard, however, was to be breached 15 minutes from time, and it was game on when Joe Grant ran on to a ball through the middle before getting the better of Binfield shot-stopper Nathan Silver.

Broome had been introduced to proceedings moments earlier, with Chris Dean following him on to the pitch not long after, and the experienced pair would help weather the storm which had been whipped up by the Yellamen.

Yet when a useful punt forward by Silver found Ferdinand, a place in the last four was sealed.

The striker would find Howell waiting in space, with the midfielder doubling his tally for the evening on the stroke of full time.

Reward for the win is a date with another league rival, Flackwell Heath.

The tie is due to be played at Wilks Park on Tuesday, March 1 at 7.45pm.

The winners will face either Newport Pagnell Town or Holmer Green in the competition’s final.

BINFIELD: Silver, O’Connell, Gibbs, Luis (c), M.Walton, Knight, Howell, Withers (Broome), Ferdinand, Johnson, Rowland (Dean).

Subs not used: Carlisle.

n IN THE meantime, Binfield’s immediate attentions turn to the league game at Brimscombe and Thrupp on Saturday (3pm).

SECOND-HALF goals from Sam Bateman and James Payne saw Wokingham and Emmbrook begin 2016 on a winning note.

For the Sumas saw off Letcombe of Hellenic Division 1 West to book their place in round two of the Bluefin Sports Supplementary Cup. Although lively, there was nothing to separate the two sides during the first half, but it did need a fine save from Sumas’ ‘keeper Sean Woodward to deny Adam Claydon just before the break, The first chance after the restart would fall to the visitors, with Elliott Rushforth only just wide of the far post when going for goal from a tight angle.

But on 56 minutes the Hellenic Premier Division side broke the deadlock.

In attempting to cut out a cross from the left, Letcombe’s Sean Webb could only divert the ball past goalkeeper Danny Joyce, which left Bateman with a tap-in from close range.

Sam Bateman broke the deadlock for Wokingham and Emmbrook

Wokingham and Emmbrook were to double this advantage midway through the half.

No fewer than five first-time passes presented substitute Payne with a clear run on goal, and the player would make no mistake.

The hosts contested the strike, but appeals for offside were dismissed by the match officials.

The two goals would continue to separate the sides until the latter stages of the tie, where a free-kick struck by Richard Claydon found the back of the net to give Letcombe some hope, but Wokingham saw out the final few minutes to secure a welcome win.

WOKINGHAM AND EMMBROOK: Woodward, Carter, Rowland, Thorne, Whiting, Butler (Payne), Duffelen, Pearson, Rushforth, Bateman (Broadhurst).

Subs not used: D.Bateman, Eggletson.

n WOKINGHAM will be looking to resume their battle to beat the drop when Royal Wootton Bassett are the visitors to The Investec Triangle on Saturday (3pm). n THE game between Woodley United and Didcot Reserves in Hellenic Division 1 East was postponed on Saturday because of a waterlogged pitch at Scours Lane.

With Reading Town picking up a point from a 2-2 draw at Headington Amateurs, United slipped to bottom spot in the table.

Woodley return to action on Tuesday, where they host Shirvenham in the Bluefin Sports Supplemantary Cup (7.45pm).

WOKINGHAM SPORT

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Contact the sports desk: sport@wokinghampaper.co.uk | Log on the for latest sports news www.wokinghampaper.co.uk READING FC

Happy Gunter is ready to commit his long-term future to Reading

Chris Gunter’s current deal will run out in the summer Picture: Vivienne Johnson

HOW IT ALL STARTED Championship rivals Nottingham Forest CHRIS GUNTER is ready to commit his my feelings – and my agent has been My first job was helping out in a local steak restaurant where I learned how to select and cook what I think is the perfect steak. in 2012 a £2.5 million switch, relaying those messages,” the that servedback immediate to 30Reading, writes I movedfuture to Reading years ago and to my disappointment was not able to find asaid restaurant the food I lovedin most. three-year deal with the option popular full back.

LEWIS RUDD. My dream was to open a steakhouse in Reading that would serve the quality of steak I had experiencedsigning all those a years back.

Finally, had the opportunity to buy Colleys Supper Rooms,“There a restaurant had beentoestablished in Reading for years a beautiful to over stay20for an inextra 12 months, a clause is nothat contract sign, so there The I26-year-old has just six months Victorian building that I had always admired. I knew I had the chance to achieve my dream. I opened Barts in Feb 2011 and with the help of my whichiswas triggered last year. as formalever as that. offantastic his current deal toserving run atexceptional Madejskisteaksisinnothing team we haveleft been a great environment since. The décor and atmosphere continually evolving But has whatever happens the defender, “There have and been conversations Stadium, he has opened talks thanks toand our while loyal patrons.

The menu has grown since we first opened I am proud to say thatand the quality of food only got better. who is closing in on 150 appearances for hopefully something can be done and, with club officials about extending Here at Barts, we bring together dishes inspired by cuisines from all over the world but centered around our renowned steaks the club, has vowed to continue giving from my point of view, the sooner the his stay, no formal offer has yet been and seafood. We specialise in offering you the steaks of the highest quality, provided by local butchers, better. presented to the Wales international aged for a minimum of 28 days, flame grilled for superior taste and succulence. his all.

“I’ve never been in the final six “As a footballer, you are not really – meaning he would be free to join Jamshed Miah youthat, to Barts & Restaurant months of a contract not knowing what in welcomes control of so Grill if and when those another club in the summer for nothing is going to happen,” he added: conversations are had then fantastic, as things stand.

“I think as a footballer you just learn but until then you carry on and do your But Gunter hopes this will not be the to push stuff to the side, and once you’re best. case. training and playing you focus on that.”

“I can’t make the club give me a “I want to stay and all the people n FOR more Royals news and reports, contract, but if I could, I would.” at the club that make those decisions turn to page 37.

Gunter joined Royals from and have that power are aware of

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

RENOWNED FOR OUR STEAKS

FOOTBALL

President Ashwell makes case for Wokingham and Emmbrook’s return

‘We are trying to create a legacy’

By LEWIS RUDD lrudd@wokinghampaper.co.uk

ALLOWING Wokingham and Emmbrook to make the necessary improvements it needs in order to return to the borough will benefit the club both now and in the future.

This is what Mark Ashwell told local residents and interested parties who gathered earlier in the week to learn more about the Sumas’ plans to improve the facilities at Lowther Road.

Club officials have lodged proposals with Wokingham Borough Council to install a 100-seater stand and floodlights at its spiritual home.

Both are needed in order to meet strict Football Association (FA) guidelines imposed on clubs competing in the higher levels of the non-league pyramid.

Due to Lowther Road having no seating at present to accommodate supporters, Wokingham and Emmbrook are currently playing all ‘home’ fixtures at the Investec Perpetual Triangle – a ground they share with landlords Henley Town.

Since Finchampstead Road was sold back in 1999, Wokingham Town – and latterly Wokingham and Emmbrook – have had to make home in places such as Windsor and Bracknell Town in order to continue competing at both Step Five and Six. Proposals over the years to plot a return to the borough have come via Cantley Park and Plough Lane, but fell by the wayside due to constraints or lack of support.

But those involved with the club now feel the time is right to bring the Sumas back to their rightful place in the borough.

And at a meeting hosted by the club on Tuesday, Ashwell explained the reasons for why they need to improve the existing set up at the Emmbrook Sports and Social Club.

“We want to keep our neighbours informed and want to hear opinions on things so far,” said the president.

“We need to regulate what we do have if we want to continue playing at Step Five or Step Six, especially here in the borough, otherwise we will have to continue playing elsewhere.

“I do feel a bit of empathy with you all, but it would be great if we could work together

on this and through any objections, but if we can’t then hey-ho, we move on.”

Plans have also been drawn up to improve AVAILABLE 12:00 - 17:00 on-site parking facilities through the laying Roast Beef down of Grasscrete, yet those present raised 8.95 Overnight marinated beef, served with sauté mixed vegetables (Baby Carrots, Broccoli, concerns about congestion on matchday, Cauliflower, Green Beans), oven roasted potatoes, honey glazed roasted parsnips, Yorkshire pudding, topped with Barts homemade gravy. Accompanied by horseradish sauce. noise, litter and light pollution.

Neighbours, were, however, relieved to Roast Lamb hear proposals to install a fence around the 8.95 Overnight marinated lamb, served with sauté mixed vegetables (Baby Carrots, Broccoli, pitch haveCauliflower, been binned.

Green Beans), oven roasted potatoes, honey glazed roasted parsnips, Yorkshire pudding, topped with Barts homemade They also learned that the lights wouldmint be gravy. Accompanied by mint sauce. used around 15 times a season for midweek OFF FROM COOKING WEEK AND TREAT YOURSELF, FAMILY OR matchesTAKE andTHE willDAY be switched off by noTHIS later TO A to SUPERB than 8pm should the teamFRIENDS be allowed trainSUNDAY ROAST at the facility.

While receiving permission to make the alterations would bring the club back to Wokingham, it would also be beneficial for the Sumas’ youth set-up, too. WWW.BARTSGRILL.COM It would allow the Allied Counties side 0118 966 2268 which had to be scrapped because of the lack of a permanent home to be reinstated, while it would also provide a base for some of the younger sections of the club as well.

“This is a big opportunity to pursue excellent for our kids,” added Ashwell.

“This is a very different club now, this is a community club now and we want to be involved in the community.

“We don’t want to be at Grays Farm or anywhere else, we want to be here in Wokingham.

“We want to create a legacy for our youth. and we are trying to make a bit more of the oasis we all possesses in our village.”

The meeting was told how the cost of such improvements is likely to be in the region of £140,000.

Exactly £100,000 of this will come via an FA grant, with the remaining money being raised by the club.

If given the go-ahead by planning officers, the application is expected to go before the authority’s planning committee sometime in March for a final decision.

Emmbrook and Bearwood Cricket Club, who also call Lowther Road their home, have also backed the plans. n FOR more on the application, turn to page 4. n FOR all the latest local football news and reports, turn to pages 38 and 39.

SUNDAY ROAST

DRIVEN BY QUALITY At Barts, we specialise in steaks of the highest quality from top butchers, aged for a minimum of 28 days, flame grilled for taste.

Mark Ashwell spoke with local residents on Tuesday night Published by Xn Media Ltd, Crown House, 231 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS. Printed at Newbury Weekly News, Newspaper House, Faraday Road, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2DW .© Xn Media Ltd, 2016

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